Salem Fire Victim Relief Fund Launched After Fatal Blaze

SALEM, MA — A municipal relief fund has been launched to help two households with pets displaced after Tuesday's fire on Roslyn Street that left a third-floor resident dead.

The city is seeking cash and gift card donations, as well as tips on available rental properties for the households whose homes were destroyed in the fire that broke out early Tuesday afternoon.

• 1 Dead In Multi-Family Salem House Fire Despite Heroic Save Efforts

A 62-year-old man was found on the third floor and taken to Salem Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Retired Salem Deputy Fire Chief John Payne, who lives next door to the house, was lauded for his efforts to try to enter the building to save the victim. But heavy smoke and fire repelled the efforts of Payne and others who attempted a rescue.

Those who are aware of potential rental properties that accept pets are asked to contact jmota@salem.com, and that information will be shared with the victims.

Donations to the relief fund may be made at any Salem Five bank branch or online here, and enter City of Salem Donations in the search bar.

Donations may also be mailed to: Salem Relief Fund, c/o Salem Five, 71 Washington Street, Salem, MA 01970.

Those donating at a branch or mailing a donation, should make the check payable to “Salem Relief Fund.”

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.

Those who would like to help the victims recover are encouraged to give cash donations, so individuals have the most flexibility in rebuilding their lives. Gift cards in even amounts for clothing, groceries, meals, home goods and furnishings, and personal care products and toiletries are accepted.

Cash and gift cards may be dropped off at the Office of the Mayor, Salem City Hall, 93 Washington Street, Mondays through Wednesdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Fridays 8:00 a.m. to noon.