Update:
The American Red Cross Heart of Missouri Chapter is assisting the California family after the fire destroyed their home on East Forest Street, Wednesday.
A chapter volunteer provided the family, a mother and 11-year-old daughter, with financial assistance from the Red Cross for them to meet immediate emergency needs with the purchase of food and clothing.
Family members also received comfort kits, which contain personal hygiene items, and referrals to local partner agencies.
The mother and daughter are staying with relatives.
California fire fighters responded to a house fire on Forest Street in downtown California shortly after noon Wednesday. The fire was brought under control at 1:10 p.m.
For more on this story see next week's issue of the California Democrat.