Update, May 1: It was originally reported that United Way donations would not directly benefit the victims of the fire. This is innacuarete. The United Way, which now operates the Marlborough Community Cupboard, raises money directly for the communities it is involved in. Since the fire, the Community Cupboard (the food bank) has ammended their hours to accomodate donations from the community. 

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Marlborough residents are continuing to respond to the victims of Monday's disastrous Lake Williams condo fire with generosity in the days since the blaze. 

Many local organizations have come forward to coordinate relief efforts, and the city of Marlborough has established an avenue for monetary donations that will benefit the victims of the fire. 

Temple Emanuel has offered to take donations of clothing, toys and other needed items, and store them until they can be distributed. If anyone would like to make a contribution, contact Sherri Greenstein Himle by email or call 508-397-1312.

Lake William’s Pizza will help raise money and collect donations for the victims by hosting a fundraiser Monday, April 30, where 10 percent of sales will be donated to the fire victims. Check out their menu here and call (508) 485-2666 on Monday.

Furnishing Options has put forth a plea asking for items such as bed linens, dressers and bureaus, kitchen and dining room tables as well as chairs and kitchenware. Those with these items in good condition are asked to call 774-348-4922 or visit the organization's website.

The Bridge Program, another local group dedicated to building a better relationship and a sense of community between the police department, city officials and the Brazilian community, has also taken an active role in the recovery process.

"We understand that this fire has been devastating to so many in our community and has left so many families in need of help," said Rafael Faria, an organizer with the group. "We have been talking directly with the members of the Food Pantry and Furnishing Options who are working hard to help our community, especially in this time of need. We have also been contacting hotels and other businesses who have generously agreed to help with donations. However, we still need help from the community members. The Food Pantry is in dire need of nonperishable food items and toiletries."

The Marlborough Food Pantry is accepting donations 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and is reportedly accepting clothing donations as well. 

The city of Marlborough has set up a means of aid for those interested in helping monetarily. 

The Mayor's Charitable Relief Fund, which normally raises money for residents at the annual Mayor's Ball, is taking donations from residents and businesses in advance of the event.

Mayor’s Charitable Relief Fund City Hall, 4th Floor
140 Main Street
Marlborough, MA 01752

All checks may be made out to the “Mayor’s Charitable Relief Fund.”

Although all funds received will help residents in all type of emergency situations, donors have the option to ask that their check be directed to the “Lake Williams Fire Relief.”

Faculty, students and families from the Advanced Math and Science Academy are also in the process of making a concerted effort toward aiding those affected. 

On Friday, April 27, the school will hold a fundraiser called “Help Our Neighbors!” This will be a “Dress Down Day” (AMSA normally requires students to wear uniforms) whereby students pay $1 to wear a non-uniform to school. Organizers anticipate generating close to $800 in the effort.

While the Red Cross also accepts donations for people in need on a continual basis, there is no guarantee that donations will directly benefit the victims of the Marlborough fire, said organizers.

If you know of other fundraisers ongoing or upcoming to benefit the victims of this fire, post the information in the comment field.

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