NORWAY – A former tenant of the boarding house that was destroyed in a fire early Monday morning is asking for donations to help about a dozen occupants left homeless .

“Some of them are very close friends of mine. I’m trying to help them,” said Laura Gleason of Norway, who lived in the building at 467 Main St. for about six months last year.

Gleason said she is collecting clothes, cash, shoes, food, pet food, empty bottles and cans that can be returned for cash, personal products and other items.

The tenants, who range from their early 20s through their 60s, all escaped safely from the fire, along with a dog and two cats.

Gleason said the tenants have lost everything. One lost his Social Security card, license and other important documents.

Although the Red Cross has stepped in to assist the victims, Gleason said the tenants told her they have received three days in a hotel and food vouchers to take them through the first day.

Gleason, who used to work with the Red Cross and whose mother was a longtime Red Cross volunteer, said local area individuals and businesses have already stepped up to help out.

“It’s heartbreaking. These are my friends,” she said.

Anyone who would like to help may contact Gleason at 595-6437 or 595-5792.

ldixon@sunjournal.com