Neighbors in the 19th Ward and across the city came together Wednesday to lend a hand to families left homeless by Monday’s five-alarm fire.
Abby's St. Kittchen, located a few blocks away from the demolished complex, set up a collection drive at a neighborhood lounge to replace belongings. Clothes, coats, shoes, toiletries and non-perishable food items were all accepted. The restaurant is also providing some free meals to those who lost their homes.
Restaurant Owner Abby Riley said it's her way of taking care of the neighborhood that takes care of her.
“I see people fly in and out of here every day. I even know what they want so they are like our favorite customers and I know a lot of people who live in the building,” Riley said. “They support me and I want to support them.”
Lisa Harris lived in the complex for 10 years and lost everything in the fire. The community support brought her to tears.
"It's unbelievable the way the people are coming together to help us because we don't have anything. For them to do this for us, it's like wow," said Harris.
Zola Brown, vice president of the 19th Ward Community Association, was one of many proud to help.
"Where we live, we should take care of each other, respect each other, acknowledge each other and welcome each other and hug each other when we are in need," Brown said.
Monroe County Department of Motor Vehicles also joined the effort by replacing important documents.
"Some people don't realize that you can lose ID's. You can lose birth certificates. So by having DMV here and vital records here, people will be able to replace some of these important documents because as you try to move across institutions to get help, you have to prove who you are," said City Councilmember Adam McFadden.
Harris is optimistic things will get better from here.
"A lot of people are trying to help us so we're gonna make it through this," said Harris.
If you'd like to support those in need, drop off donations at the 19th Ward Community Association. It's located at 216 Thurston Road.