For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016

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

City of Methuen Provides Update on Relief Efforts for Fire Victims

METHUEN — Mayor Stephen Zanni and Chief Joseph Solomon are updating the community after raising more than $18,000 to assist the Methuen residents who were displaced after the building fire at 11 Ashton Place last week.

Just after 9 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 22, Methuen Police and Fire responded to the two-alarm fire. The apartment building and its 21 units were destroyed.

According to the Red Cross, 51 people were displaced: 39 adults and 12 children.

Those displaced from the fire can speak with officials to discuss state aid from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. today by reporting to Sanborn Hall at the Methuen Police Station, 90 Hampshire St.

The city has received more than $18,000 in cash donations from various organizations, including the Methuen Police Patrolman’s Association, Methuen City Council, Methuen Firefighters – Local 1691, and Mayor Zanni himself.

Residents who wish to donate money to the victims of the fire can drop off a check made out to the “City of Methuen” to the following locations:

• Methuen Fire Department, Central Fire Station, 24 Lowell St.
• Methuen Police Department, 90 Hampshire St.Residents who wish to make an electronic donation can visit the Debbie’s Treasure Chest website. All donations made to Debbie’s Treasure Chest from today through Jan. 1 will be donated to the victims.

While monetary donations will still be graciously accepted, officials are no longer accepting clothing or toys for those displaced.

The City wishes to acknowledge the following agencies for their direct assistance:

• The Psychological Center Inc.
• MEMA (Mass Emergency Management Agency)
• Mass Division of Insurance
• Mass Division of Housing and Community Development
• Methuen Housing Authority
• Debbie’s Treasure Chest
• CTI
• Emmaus
• GLCAC (Greater Lawrence Community Action Counsel)

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