Salem Launches Relief Fund For Putnam Street Fire Victims

SALEM, MA — Salem has launched a relief effort for residents who were permanently displaced by a serious fire on Putnam Street this past weekend, with donations now being collected to help them recover.

The city is also asking anyone who knows of apartments for rent in Salem that may be available for those residents to contact jmota@salem.com. That information will be shared with the victims.

People who want to contribute money can donate online at salemma.gov/relief or by check at any Salem Five bank branch. Donations may also be mailed to Salem Relief Fund, c/o Salem Five, 71 Washington Street, Salem, MA 01970. Checks should be made payable to the Salem Relief Fund.

Donations are tax-deductible. Donated funds will be divided among the victims to help them secure temporary housing and purchase clothing and other household essentials.

The city is encouraging residents who want to help to make a monetary donation instead of giving physical items. That approach gives the victims more flexibility as they begin rebuilding their lives after the fire.

Financial donations and gift cards may also be dropped off at the Constituent Services Office of the Mayor at Salem City Hall, 93 Washington Street, second floor, during regular business hours.