FIRE VICTIMS UPDATE: No more items needed TFN, but here’s how to donate $

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5:10 PM: That’s just one of multiple piles of donated items at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, which has been collecting donations for the Lam-Bow Apartments fire victims, many of whom have been sheltered by the Red Cross at nearby Delridge Community Center. Youngstown is so swamped, in fact, that director David Bestock sends the request: NO MORE FOR NOW, PLEASE – “I think at least until displaced folks find a place to live, we’ve got more than they can handle.”

He just told us as we were about to publish this that Youngstown DOES have enough helping hands for now, but: “Folks who want to help volunteer can contact the WS Helpline volunteer desk at operations@wshelpline.org for ongoing support over the next couple weeks.”

Meantime, we haven’t heard yet from the Seattle Housing Authority (which owns the Lam-Bow) about other ways to help, but keep in mind, for those families, there’ll be long-term needs, so we’ll continue to follow up, next week and beyond.

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ADDED 7:43 PM: Some good news from SHA’s Kerry Coughlin: “Our staff have met individually with families to assess their needs and have identified all vacancy options in our portfolio. We believe we will have everyone rehoused in suitable SHA housing by next week.”

As for donating $, she says they haven’t yet figured out an online option yet BUT if you would like to send a check – there is now a Fire Relief Fund, and the details are here.

5 Replies to "FIRE VICTIMS UPDATE: No more items needed TFN, but here's how to donate $"

  • DRG September 30, 2016 (9:07 pm)

    What a blessing to hear something so wonderful — “you have all been so generous that we cannot even handle it!”. Bless those who have been so generous & responsive to the needs of their neighbors.     

  • Rachel Van Ness September 30, 2016 (11:37 pm)

    Too much of a good thing is wonderful. It’s also a relief to know that people are moving into permanent housing next week. I hope that cards and prayers are are still welcome.

  • Mom October 1, 2016 (5:39 am)

    WSB, can you let us know if 100% of donations will go to the people displaced by the fire, or if the foundation will keep a portion of the donations?  Also, will the funds go to the families as cash and gift cards, or will the funds be spent on items that are then given to the families?

  • kjb October 2, 2016 (8:00 am)

    I may have a couch and other furniture, bedding to donate. Is there a specific contact for large donation items?

    • WSB October 2, 2016 (8:05 am)

      Thank you. Not currently but we’ll be continue to follow up in the week ahead.

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