Red Cross lends helping hand to BK tornado victims

A Bay Ridge Avenue family is one of several living in a Red Cross shelter after a tornado tore through Brooklyn and damaged homes Wednesday.
Ashraf Eshra, his wife Halah and their three children are living at a satellite office set up at P.S. 314 at 330 59th St. "My roof has been almost collapsed," Ashraf Eshra said.
The Eshras are among about 80 people who were at the Red Cross site Thursday morning. They're receiving the basics, such as food, water and housing help.
The Red Cross is also providing mental counseling, saying many of the severe weather victims are in shock. The organization said many of the people being helped are Chinese immigrants who don't have adequate insurance to cover damage.
Although Ashraf Eshra's home is insured, he will have to rely on the Red Cross until a thorough damage assessment begins.
Experts suggest residents verify they have tornado coverage as part of their home insurance policy. They also say homeowners should keep an inventory of all items so they can be reimbursed.
State Sen. Martin Golden plans to bring an emergency mobile insurance van to Bay Ridge and Sunset Park to help residents file claims.
Related information:Mobile insurance van718-238-6044