The American Red Cross is now helping displaced families after a fire in Morris Heights on Tuesday.

Flames were seen flying out of the first-floor apartment of 38 Featherbed Lane. The thick smoke was seen filling the air and dozens of people were evacuated.

The fire started at around 10:40 a.m. in a woman's apartment, while she was at church. The woman says she's grateful to be alive, but has lost everything inside.

Neighbors were seen comforting each other after helping one another escape the burning building.

Sandra Lynn Roman says the first thing she grabbed was her cat. Another resident, Anthony England says he lives on the fourth floor of the building and escaped using the fire escape.

"I wound up scratching myself up and stuff it was crazy," said England.

Parents were seen cradling their kids for safety as firefighters battled the flames and smoke that later spread to the second floor of the building.

The FDNY deputy chief on the scene said five people were being treated for minor injuries, including one firefighter.

The American Red Cross made sure the displaced tenants got the help and shelter that they need. News 12 is told the Red Cross connected with nearly 30 people who may need emergency housing or financial services after the fire.