Donation Opportunities in Wake of Marlborough Fire

Dozens if not hundreds of residents around the Marlborough community have responded to the with sympathy and compassion in the days since the blaze, all the time asking what they could do to help those affected. 

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

Just a day after the fire, , a local nonprofit, put forth an urgent plea to those in the Metrowest area asking for items such as bed linens, dressers and bureaus, kitchen and dining room tables as well as chairs and kitchenware (including posts and pans). Anyone who has these items in good condition is 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 , 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  is accepting donations 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and many Brazilian churches are now starting food drives which they will coordinate through the Bridge Program to deliver items to the food pantry.

An announcement was made on the local Brazilian radio station Wednesday evening asking people to contribute where they could, said organizers.

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

Since 1960, the Mayor's Charitable Relief Fund has assisted local residents in need of a helping hand during times of emergency or duress. This fund may help a family who has lost their possessions in a home fire such as this, or who are threatened with eviction, senior citizens whose fuel or light and power are to be terminated, or individuals financially struggling due to a serious illness.

Though the annual , residents or businesses who wish to contribute to the relief efforts for the impacted families in advance, are asked to send their donations to:

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 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.

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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