Western and Central Massachusetts residents whose homes were destroyed or condemned following last week’s tornadoes and storms should register with the American Red Cross as the first step in the re-housing process, according to the state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
The American Red Cross is processing displaced residents at three emergency shelters and has started registering people at three storm assistance centers who are displaced but not currently staying in shelter.
Nonprofit housing organizations and housing authorities are working to identify vacant, available units for rent and seek out funds to enable those in shelter and elsewhere to get into those units as soon as possible, according to a statement. DHCD staff and housing specialists will be available at each assistance center location to help navigate the re-housing process.
"It is vital that residents whose homes have been destroyed in the tornado register with the American Red Cross. This first step in the process will be used to verify residents’ status as the assessments continue," Undersecretary Tina Brooks said. "The Patrick-Murray administration and DHCD understand the importance of getting the victims of these tornadoes back on their feet in a timely manner; we will continue to dedicate staff and resources to this effort until each person has been re-housed."
Residents displaced by the tornado who have not registered with the American Red Cross can visit one of the following three assistance centers:
- Springfield Assistance Center – 95 Liberty St., Springfield
- Monson/Palmer Assistance Center – 171 State Ave., Palmer
- Southbridge Assistance Center – 1 North St., Southbridge
