The American Red Cross continues to assist the four families who were uprooted from their homes in Lehighton following a fire early Wednesday morning.

In all, 18 people are being assisted by the organization, according to Michele Baehr, executive director of the American Red Cross of the Pocono Mountains."The Red Cross assisted four families, 18 total clients," Baehr said. "Everyone was out safely, we're happy to report."Baehr said one of the homes had a couple; another a family of four with the mother, father, brother and sister; and two families of six, both of which had four children.Three veterans are among the people being served by the Red Cross, Baehr said."Everyone was provided with the financial support for their immediate need, lodging, food, clothing," she said. "All the homes are considered not livable due to no electricity, two of them are gutted."Baehr said there has been a "huge outpouring of care from the community, people are asking how they can help.""Our responders will continue to follow up," she said. "We have caseworkers that this will be handed over to, and will continue to assess their needs and get them back onto the road of recovery."Baehr added, "We would love it if people are interested in volunteering. The support we give to families is complete financial support."