Supporting survivors of Myrtle Avenue fire

AVillage…, Inc., presented Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany with $14,147.72 check on Tuesday, Sept. 17, to benefit survivors of the Aug. 23 fire on Myrtle Avenue. The funds will pay for furniture, medical products, as well as many other needs. Catholic Charities will be working one-on-one with the affected families to help them rebuild their lives.

This is the fourth major fire in the Mansion Neighborhood since 2006. The Mansion Neighborhood Association moved quickly to meet the needs of the more than 40 survivors, working with neighborhood partners Bishop Maginn High School, A Block at a Time and Grand Street Community Arts to meet immediate needs; and spearheading the fundraising drive with AVillage.

“AVillage was pleased to step in and provide the fiscal and communications support needed for this fund drive,” said Jahkeen Hoke, Executive Director of AVillage. “A response like this actually brings all of our diverse neighborhoods in the South End closer together."

“This money will be instrumental in helping the families affected as they rebuild their lives,” said Vincent W. Colonno, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany. “We’re grateful for AVillage, The Mansion Neighborhood Association, and the community who have responded to help, and are pleased to be able to provide assistance to those struggling to recover.”

The collaborative effort to provide long-term support is a part of the Capital Region Organizations Active in Disaster (CROAD) recovery efforts. CROAD is a coalition of local non-profit organizations, government agencies, and community partners involved in disaster response. Anyone affected by the fire who would like to speak with a case manager about getting help, can contact Catholic Charities at 518-641-6953.