Dumpsters fill the parking lot of the Golf Meadow Estates apartment complex in Woodridge, as crews try and clean up the mess created by a large fire nearly two weeks ago. A grilling mistake is what the fire department says started the blaze, that forced out eleven families, leaving them with no place to go.
“Basically, its eleven families who are displaced, and they’re just desperate for help. That’s what we do,” said Woodridge Jaycee member, Debbi White.
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Since the time of the fire, the Woodridge community has come together to try and help these families get back on their feet. One organization that is reaching out is the Woodridge Jaycee Chamber, who is trying to raise money through a community spaghetti dinner, with the proceeds going directly to the victims.
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“All proceeds are going to benefit all of the families,” said Jaycee COB Jennifer Mullen.
“There will be auctions and raffles. Also some live music entertainment,” White added.
Other members of the community are doing what they can as well to support those who lost their homes. In a newsletter sent out by the Village last week, Mayor Gina Cunningham said residents can help out by purchasing gift cards to help the families buy necessities, or can donate items at the local Bridgeview bank. The Jaycees say they are also accepting donations of any kind to help the families.
“We’re also looking for a local store to donate vouchers for furniture or beds, so that once they do get on their feet, they won’t be so devastated with having to furnish an entire home… we’ve got one family with two special needs kids that have to stay in school district 99,” White said.
Out of the eleven families displaced by the fire, only one has a permanent place to stay. The rest are stating with family or friends until they can return home. The hope is to make that return a quick one.
“We really need these victims to feel like they’re not alone. We’ve been following them every step of the way… the whole Village asks what they can do,” White said.
The spaghetti dinner will take place on June 7 at Zero Gravity on Route 53. Anybody looking for additional information is encouraged to contact the Jaycees.
