EASTON, Pa. — United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley has partnered with local groups to establish an emergency relief fund for people affected by a fire that displaced more than 40 people last weekend.
In response to the March 22 fire at Hotel Lafayette, the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and local partners have created an emergency relief fund to offer urgent assistance to those in need.
The fire, which was contained to a single room on the hotel's fifth floor, caused extensive water damage to the second, third and fourth floors.
In all, 36 units were affected, with 12 in need of significant repairs.
“So we're jumping in and we're going to combine efforts and feed these folks as they continue to come in."Greater Shiloh Church Associate Pastor Jason Vanderburg
American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter is partnering with Greater Shiloh Church Chapel in South Easton to operate a shelter for those affected by the fire.
The shelter offers three meals a day and a place to stay until residents find safe housing.
Greater Shiloh Associate Pastor Jason Vanderburg said the church has opened up its Shiloh Chapel to accommodate those displaced by the fire and anticipates continuing the service into next week.
Vanderburg said the Red Cross food allotment for the fire victims ran out Thursday afternoon, but the church will continue to help.
“So we're jumping in and we're going to combine efforts and feed these folks as they continue to come in," Vanderburg said. "But as for additional needs, I would say things like gift cards that could be given to support them.”
Vanderburg said hygiene products — soap, body wash, deodorant, toothpaste and other essentials — also would be appreciated.
Teaming with institutions to help
Safe Harbor Easton also is providing support. The Red Cross shelter will remain open until all displaced residents have alternate housing accommodations, a UWGLV release says.
The American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter provided relief to residents in the immediate aftermath of the fire, including shelter, food and emergency supplies.
Now, United Way is teaming up with local institutions to offer long-term assistance, with 100% of all funds going to aid the victims of the disaster.
“This tragic fire has displaced dozens of people who are now faced with the uncertainty of rebuilding their lives."United Way Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko
“This tragic fire has displaced dozens of people who are now faced with the uncertainty of rebuilding their lives,” United Way Chief Executive Officer Marci Lesko said.
“The strength of our partners and community lies in our ability to come together quickly and support those in crisis. Every donation to this relief fund will provide vital resources and a path forward for those impacted.”
Donations can be made online, and checks payable to UWGLV can be sent to 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown 18109, Attn. “Hotel Lafayette Fire Fund.”
Additionally, people interested in making a donation can text “REBUILD” to 40403. Gift card donations also are encouraged.
Community rallies to help victims
The fire began about 9:40 a.m. March 22, and was called in by a police officer who saw smoke coming from the top floor of the hotel.
All those inside the building were able to escape safely, and the fire department was able to get the blaze under control in about 20 minutes, with personnel both in and outside the structure.
Fire officials have since classified parts of the hotel, including the floor where the fire originated, as uninhabitable.
“And I just want to point out that having a professional fire department right there probably saved that building. Because if that were a volunteer fire department, the response time is much, much longer."Easton City Councilman Roger Ruggles
During an Easton City Council meeting Wednesday, Mayor Sal Panto Jr. and several council members commended police — who originally called in the fire — and the fire department for swift action.
“And I just want to point out that having a professional fire department right there probably saved that building," Councilman Roger Ruggles said.
"Because if that were a volunteer fire department, the response time is much, much longer,” he said.
“And I tell you, it was amazing how quickly that fire grew, because when I first saw it, there was smoke coming out of the window, just smoke, and within minutes, flames were coming out of the window.
"Five minutes in a fire is an enormous amount of time, so I want to compliment both police officers who really took care of the situation prior to the fire department getting there.”
Panto also thanked St. Luke’s for providing replacement medication for those affected by the blaze, and Greater Shiloh Church for providing immediate and sustained assistance for the victims.
