Displaced residents find new housing; now finding new furnishings
GAYLORD -- Overwhelming.
That's how many described a community shower held Wednesday in Gaylord.
Donations poured in to aid victims of a July 22nd fire that destroyed the Alpine Haus Apartment complex, leaving 52 residents with no place to go.
"It's amazing," said Jody Schlaufman of the Otsego County Department of Human Services as she described the interior of the Eagles Lodge that is filling with donated goods. Schlaufman was just one of a handful of volunteers. "These are all private donations that have arrived here since 8 a.m. and it's just overwhelming."
From couches and chairs, to clothing and cookware, donations arrived by the truck load.
Judy Wright is just one of the residents that sees the day as the next step in moving forward, replacing the things she lost and believing again in what community is all about.
"It's overwhelming to know that this town cares so much for its residents. The outpouring the caring the love that they give their residents in this town its just unbelievable," Wright said.
The tables and floors swelled with everyday items; a response so great it even had organizers quite surprised.
"I think we've exceeded our goals. There were 52 homeless people as a result of that fire that needed everything basically and with this outpouring I think we've exceeded all of our goals," Schlaufman said.
Many residents agree with Judy Wright in saying that it's the support of the community that has them making it through a difficult time.
"Thank you Gaylord, thank you from the bottom of everybody's heart because without you we'd be lost, totally," Wright said.
With the support of countless organizations, all 52 residents from the apartment complex have been able to secure other housing. According to the property management, they do intend to rebuild the complex.
Any items not picked up Wednesday will be distributed to other Otsego County area service agencies to distribute to other individuals in need. Organizations like the Salvation Army, American Red Cross, and United Way continue to accept cash donations to help cover costs incurred and to provide further medical assistance.
