West Chicago Reaches Out to Help Apartment-Fire Victims Relocate; You Can Help, Too

At about 2:17 a.m. on July 11—the morning of the big storm that downed so many power lines and took a great deal of attention—the West Chicago Fire Protection District and the West Chicago Police Department responded to the Aspen Ridge Apartment Complex for a five-alarm fire with special circumstances.

About150 firefighters responded to the scene. No civilians were injured and two firefighters reported minor injuries. This fire affected 23 apartments and displaced 23 families—resulting in 107 people having to be relocated. 

Due to the smoke, fire and water damage, some of these families are left with little to no household and personal items.

The West Chicago Police Department has received numerous phone calls from members of the community offering donations. If anyone is interested in donating clothing or household items, they can be dropped off at St. Vincent DePaul located at 213 Main St., West Chicago.

Victims of the fire will receive vouchers that can be redeemed at the thrift store.  Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at St. Mary’s Food Pantry located on Garden Street behind the church.  Additionally the social service unit is working with local banks to set up a victim relief fund.

"The city of West Chicago would like to convey special thanks to the following businesses and public agencies for their assistance: DuPage County Community Services, Sleep Innovations, Olive Garden, McDonald’s, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Sharing Connection, West Chicago School District 33, Community High School District 94 and DuPage County Board Member Dirk Enger."

This press release is courtesy of the city of West Chicago and will be updated when further information becomes available.