An estimated 32 beds, couches and chairs are still needed to help these families.
AUBURN – When Kim and Kelly Chase learned of the fire that erupted at their friends’ apartment building on Pleasant and Drummond streets Saturday morning, they knew exactly what they could do to help.
From ice cube trays and pans to beds and kitchen tables, the Chases are asking local people and businesses for donations to help the 38 who were left homeless.
“We’ve both been through fires so we know the catastrophic damages, as well as the mental damages, that they cause,” said Kelly Chase. “We know we can’t replace pictures, but we want to try to do anything that we can to help these people continue on their own and find a place that they can call home.”
Working diligently with the American Red Cross, Pleasant Street Market and other area businesses, the Chases have been able to set up dropoff stations for donated goods. They are collecting anything they can get.
“Something’s better than nothing when it can help you get started again,” Kelly Chase said.
Although a few of the families have been able to find temporary residence with friends and relatives, most of the victims are staying at area hotels. “The people at hotels are my main concern,” said Kelly, “we want to move them somewhere that is familiar to them and that they can make their home.”
An estimated 32 beds, couches, and chairs are still needed to help these families. Storage has been provided for food items, toiletries, and dishes as well.
“Some of the area businesses have been a tremendous help. U-Haul donated two storage units and Red Cross provided temporary shelter and food to help people,” said Kelly.
The Chases efforts don’t end here. “We’re planning to continue collecting donations throughout the year to benefit other fire victims in the area. It’s all about people helping people, isn’t it? We were taught in school and church to put our petty differences aside and pull together as a community to try to help one another,” said Kelly.
Anyone who wants to make a donation may phone Kim or Kelly at 784-4594 or 577-1143.
jkachinski@sunjournal.com
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