Community in Au Gres Unites to Support Families Displaced by Apartment Fire
AU GRES, Mich. – A dramatic apartment fire early Sunday morning at Riverside Manor Apartments in Arenac County has left over 30 residents homeless, displacing 16 families just as the holiday season approaches. The blaze, which took firefighters more than 11 hours to control, has sparked an outpouring of support from the local community as affected families begin to navigate their new reality.
Witnesses describe a terrifying scene as flames erupted from the multi-unit complex. Kayla Butts, one resident affected by the fire, recounted the harrowing experience of escaping with her children. “We had to get out the window. I had to break the glass to get our kids out. We had to jump out. It was traumatizing,” she said, reflecting on the chaos and confusion of the moment. Travis Noe, another resident, expressed his disbelief at the loss. “Everything happened so fast, and you don’t really realize what you lose until it happens to you,” he lamented.
Au Gres Mayor Jon Sanford, who is also a member of the local fire department, witnessed the extensive damage firsthand. “These 16 families being displaced during this time of year is particularly tragic,” he stated, emphasizing the emotional toll on the community. Sanford praised the town’s swift response and the solidarity exhibited by local businesses and residents, who came forward to assist both firefighters and those affected by the fire.
Local non-profit organizations, including It Takes a Village – Arenac, have mobilized resources to provide immediate relief. Amanda Goodson, a volunteer with the organization, transformed The Closet Exchange, typically a hub for free clothing, into a donation center for fire victims. “We have seen a steady flow of community support since the fire broke out,” she noted, highlighting the generous contributions of food, clothing, and toiletries from local individuals and businesses.
As families like Butts and Noe face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives, the community’s support plays a crucial role in their recovery. “It means the world to us that the community is helping out,” Noe remarked.
Currently, physical donations have paused to allow for sorting and distribution of the already collected items, but monetary contributions remain welcome. Cash donations can be made via the organization’s Facebook page, offering a vital avenue for supporting displaced families. Residents who need assistance following the fire are encouraged to contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS.
This incident not only underscores the potential devastation of such emergencies but also highlights the resilience and compassion inherent in communities during challenging times. As Au Gres rallies to assist its neighbors, the hope is that those impacted will find the support needed to regain stability in their lives amid the ongoing challenges of recovery.
