Town of Arlington Establishes Fund for Victims of Arizona Terrace Fire

For Immediate Release
Friday, May 8, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Town of Arlington Establishes Fund for Victims of Arizona Terrace Fire

ARLINGTON – The Town of Arlington has created a relief fund to aid the dozens of families impacted by Monday’s Brookside Condominium Complex fire.

To donate, visit Arlington’s site or head to Network for Good.

Community members are encouraged to visit the online contribution site to support their neighbors. When donating, write the word “fire” in the “designation optional” box.

The fire, which began on May 5 around 4 a.m., claimed the life of one man. Sixty units were rendered inhabitable; 36 destroyed and 24 damaged, requiring repairs.

Arlington’s Department of Health and Human Services is working in partnership with the Housing Corporation of Arlington to assist residents with finding alternative long-term housing

“The units in this complex have historically been affordable compared to the surrounding area. It has been difficult for these residents in particular to access affordable housing in the recent days, given that they have lost everything and may not have funds saved up for first, last and security deposits for new apartments,” said Christine Bongiorno, Arlington’s Director of Health and Human Services. “We will continue to work directly with residents to recuperate what they can through insurance, landlords, private agencies as well as provide assistance through this fund.”

“I’m extremely proud of the way the Town has come together in wake of this tragedy. Not only did we lose a member of our community, but dozens of families are now left without a home,” Police Chief Fredrick Ryan said. “Seeing the support from the community is truly remarkable and we’re hoping this fund is a tremendous help to the Brookside Condominium residents.”

The family of Wai Cheong Lee, age 47, who died in the fire, will arrive in Arlington from overseas in the next few days. Chief Ryan would like to acknowledge Homewood Suites by Hilton in Arlington for providing accommodations to the family at no cost. 

Arrangements are being handled by Keefe Funeral Home in Arlington.

###