Woodridge Bands Together To Help Residents Displaced By Apartment Fire

WOODRIDGE, IL — Woodridge organizations are banding together to support residents who lost belongings or were displaced by the fire that broke out at Natural Falls Resort Apartments Wednesday morning. In an open letter, Mayor Gina Cunningham wrote, "[I]n moments like these, Woodridge truly shows its heart and strength not just as a Village, but as a caring and compassionate community."

"While we are grateful that no one was injured," Cunningham wrote, "our hearts go out to the neighbors who were displaced, those who lost cherished belongings, and, in some cases, those who have tragically lost everything."

A news release shared by the Lisle-Woodridge Fire District said a frozen fire hydrant and subzero wind chills hampered firefighters' efforts to battle the blaze, which had extended between the building's first and second floors to the attic and roof.

On Wednesday morning, Chief Keith Krestan cited the news release and declined to respond to Patch's inquiry of how many residents had been displaced.

Firefighters evacuated the residents safely and no injuries were reported.

Cunningham said the village is grateful for support from the American Red Cross, West Suburban Community Pantry, Woodridge Neighbors Helping Neighbors and St. Scholastica Parish, who "have been working tirelessly to provide our displaced neighbors with critical resources, donations, and support."

According to Cunningham, the owners of the apartment complex quickly accommodated displaced residents in vacant units.

"While this offers some relief, we recognize that the emotional toll of losing personal belongings and a sense of home cannot be easily replaced," Cunningham wrote.

She encouraged residents and local organizations to offer their help and support to impacted residents by contacting West Suburban Community Pantry and the American Red Cross.

Cunningham wrote, "This tragic fire is a powerful reminder of what makes Woodridge special — neighbors caring for neighbors, kindness shown without hesitation, and a community that comes together when it matters most. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has reached out, volunteered, donated, or offered support in any way."