After Devastating Fire, Cranston Steps Up to Help Displaced Families

After 14 people in three families lost their Florida Avenue house and possessions in a devastating fire on June 10, Cranston stepped up to the plate to help.

Nine local businesses and the Cranston police union donated money, toys and gift cards to help the families start their long and tough recoveries.

Det. Paula Duffy, who noticed the fire while driving by the house and rushed inside to get everyone evacuated — moments before the house became engulfed — was “instrumental” in coordinating the effort to help, said Cranston Police Chief Col. Michael J. Winquist.

Feliz Santana, the property owner and relative to everyone affected, accepted the gift on the families’ behalf.

The businesses that helped were Applebee’s, Del’s Lemonade, Mangia Mangia, Saw’s, Shore’s Market, Stop & Shop and Walmart.

“Although it is an unfortunate circumstance, I am proud to see our community join together to help those in need,” Winquist said. “Det. Duffy’s effort to help the families recover embodies the values that the Cranston Police Department strives to maintain on a daily basis.”

Among the residents who escaped injury was a 5-month-old baby, firefighters said.

An online fundraiser was also created to help the families. As of Wednesday, it had raised more than $1,600. Its initial goal was $1,000.

Photo: Everett Trainer