ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Several community groups have united to raise money and coordinate relief efforts for the victims displaced by a three-alarm fire in the 700 block of North Seventh Street on Tuesday afternoon.
The fire destroyed or significantly damaged four homes, displacing 36 residents ages 2 to 65.
The American Red Cross of Pennsylvania Rivers chapter provided relief to residents in the immediate aftermath of the fire including shelter, food and emergency supplies in partnership with the Allentown YMCA and Promise Neighborhoods.
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Greater Valley YMCA and Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley have also established the 7th Street Fire Fund.
Along with the Lehigh Conference of Churches and a growing list of partners, they will provide long-term assistance, including stable housing, with 100% of funds going to aid the victims affected by the disaster, organizers said.
"Donors can take comfort knowing that their funds will be properly managed and used only for those affected by the fire."Marci Lesko, incoming CEO of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley
“We understand that most of the families have lost everything and won’t be able to return to their homes," said Marci Lesko, incoming chief executive officer of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley.
"At United Way, we are committed to responding to the urgent needs of the community. Through this partnership with trusted and effective partners in Allentown, donors can take comfort knowing that their funds will be properly managed and used only for those affected by the fire,” Lesko said in a news release.
Also helping in the relief efforts are Allentown School District, American Red Cross of Pennsylvania Rivers chapter, the City of Allentown, Community Action Lehigh Valley, Lehigh Valley Health Network and Valley Health Partners.
Donations can be made online at this secure website or via mail (checks payable to UWGLV, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109 – attention “7th Street Fire Fund”).
Additionally, individuals interested in making a donation can text “ALLENTOWN” to 40403. Gift card donations are also encouraged.
