September 14, 2010 > Lend a helping hand: San Bruno explosion Lend a helping hand: San Bruno explosion Submitted By Courtesy of American Red Cross A gas explosion in San Bruno ignited a large fire that destroyed dozens of homes, damaged scores of others and left thousands of residents without power on Thursday, September 9. Here's how you can help: Monetary Donations The American Red Cross is unable to accept donations of food, clothing or medicine for people affected by disasters because of the large amount of valuable manpower to process items, the logistical difficulties in storing and delivering these items. The most effective way to help the people affected by this disaster is to make a financial donation to support American Red Cross disaster relief efforts. The Red Cross uses these donations to purchase cots, blankets, food, water, toiletries and other essential items that will help affected individuals following a disaster. Tri-City residents can help those affected by the San Bruno fire by visiting www.redcrossbayarea.org/donate and donating to disaster relief. Donations may also be sent to the American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter, 85 Second Street, 8th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105, or made by phone at 1-888-4-HELP-BAY (1-888-443-5722). Blood Donations Call 1-800-RED-CROSS to make an appointment to donate blood or go online to www.redcrossbayarea.org and click on the blood services link. Volunteers The American Red Cross provides relief efforts thanks to thousands of trained volunteers. Red Cross volunteers undergo special training to provide them with the ability to safely and efficiently provide relief services. If you are interested in becoming a Red Cross volunteer to help in future disaster, you may fill out a volunteer application online at www.redcrossbayarea.org. You can also call the Volunteer Resources hotline at (415) 427-8052.