City Takes Over Relief Efforts For Salem Fire Victims

SALEM, MA - From the City of Salem: The City of Salem has launched a relief effort for the twelve residents who were displaced by this weekend’s devastating fire at 10-12 Lynde Street in Salem. Donations of items and funds are now being collected to support these individuals as they begin to recover from the fire.

“Salem residents are incredibly generous and thoughtful,” said Mayor Kim Driscoll. “As soon as word of the fire spread, we began receiving inquiries from people who wanted to help. I hope any resident who is able will consider making a financial donation or dropping off a requested item. One of the qualities that make Salem such a remarkable community is how we all look out for each other. Please give what you can to help our neighbors from Lynde Street get back on their feet.”

The City is additionally contracting with North Shore Community Action Programs, or NSCAP, to provide emergency HOME funds to help victims toward the cost of first/last/security for new housing.

“We are truly fortunate to live in such a caring community like Salem,” said Ward 2 City Councillor Christine Madore. “I’m grateful for the outpouring of support our community has shown in the immediate aftermath of the fire. While I’m relieved to know that everyone at 12 Lynde Street got out safely, many tenants have lost all their possessions. We’ve heard directly from several of them that their most devastating loss is a permanent home. That is the biggest challenge before them and any leads in apartment rentals is most appreciated.”

“The most urgent need right now is permanent housing,” Mayor Driscoll agreed. “Funds to help secure new housing would be most welcome and, if you know of available one-bedroom or studio apartments for rent in Salem that might be available for these individuals, please contact my office at mayor@salem.com and we will share the information with the victims.”

Donating Funds

Donations may be made at any Salem Five bank branch or online at www.salem.com by clicking on the “Salem Relief Fund: Lynde Street Fire” button. Donations may also be mailed to: Salem Relief Fund, c/o Salem Five, 71 Washington Street, Salem MA 01970. If donating at a branch or mailing a donation, please make your check payable to “Salem Relief Fund” and write “Lynde Street Fire” on the memo line. Donations are tax deductible and all donated funds will be divided among the victims to help them secure new housing, pay bills, or purchase food, home goods, and clothing.

Donating Items

Those who would like to donate items for the victims are invited to bring their donated goods to the Mayor Jean Levesque Community Life Center, 401 Bridge Street, between now and Friday, December 7, 2018. The Community Life Center is open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please review the list of requested items from the victims and donate what you are able. Gift Cards are the best way to help provide the victims with needed items and food. Otherwise, when possible, items should be new or, if used, clean and undamaged. Please do not bring items that have not been requested.

• Gift Cards in any amount for retailers where clothing might be purchased.
• Gift Cards in any amount for local restaurants (most of the displaced are in hotels at the moment).
• Gift Cards in any amount for grocery stores.
• Gift Cards in any amount for retailers where home goods or personal care products might be purchased.
• New or like new kitchen items.
• New bedding.
• New/unopened toiletries or personal care products.

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