What's Happening?
Rebuilding Families Fund Assists Jay Street Fire Survivors
The community response to the March 6th Jay Street fire has been remarkable. To-date more than $60,000 has been raised for the Rebuilding Families Fund that is providing long-term recovery support to residents displaced by the fire. Approximately 60 or more people were affected and rendered homeless. The Fund provides a coordinated way to obtain contributions from the public, and to distribute funds where they are most needed for recovery. 100% of each donation is channeled through The Schenectady Foundation's community partners to provide assistance to those in need.
The Schenectady Foundation seeded the effort with $10,000, and continues to accept tax-deductible contributions through its website. Donations can also be mailed to The Schenectady Foundation offices at 376 Broadway in Schenectady. Eligible donors may qualify to have their donations matched by their company, such as GE.
Rebuilding Families Fund: Jay Street Fire Recovery
100% of your donation will go toward this initiative
The Rebuilding Families Fund was launched in 2011 in response to flooding from hurricanes Irene and Lee, and to provide long-term resources for affected community members in Rotterdam Junction, Scotia and the Stockade. The Fund was active for more than 18 months, helping both the physical rebuilding of homes, and providing other support to residents and agencies in the recovery coalition.
"The American Red Cross and other agencies did a great job addressing the immediate relief needs of the survivors," said Robert Carreau, executive director of The Schenectady Foundation. "But we know that people are going to need help over the next several weeks and months to resettle themselves and start to rebuild. That's where the Rebuilding Families Fund comes in."
The Foundation is working with the County, City and community agencies such as Salvation Army, SCAP, Catholic Charities, Bethesda House and others who are providing shelter and assistance to fire survivors. The agencies work to identify needs of the people and families and provide assistance from both the Rebuilding Families Fund as well as other community resources, both public and private. The Foundation is helping to coordinate the work of agencies over the long term.
"We know there are immediate things people need like clothing, food and a place to lives, and we will help to address those first. But we'll be there for the long-term to help make sure there is adequate assistance for other needs such as counseling and emotional support," said Carreau. "The Fund ensures that there are resources available for people not just today or tomorrow, but also weeks or months from now if they're needed."
Donations may be contributed on this website by clicking on the DONATE button above. Or, you may send your check payable to:
Rebuilding Families Fund
c/o The Schenectady Foundation
376 Broadway 2nd Floor
Schenectady NY 12305
For more information contact The Schenectady Foundation at 393-9500.
