Lents Residents Rally Around Neighbors Displaced by Fire

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

GoLocalPDX News Team

Firefighters battle the blaze in Lents; courtesy of Portland Fire and Rescue

On Friday night, a two-alarm fire erupted in the Lents Town Center, forcing residents of three apartments to find new temporary or permanent housing. Fellow residents in the Lents area of Portland are rallying around their neighbors, working to raise money to help them find new homes.

“The immediate response has been heartwarming,” said Jesse Cornett, chair of the Lents Neighborhood Association. He cited volunteers from the Red Cross that responded to help victims and buses sent by Trimet to help give victims a warm place forest while they waited for more information.

Since then, even more support has poured in. A fundraising campaign was started by the Neighborhood Association, and raised more than $1,200 in its first 24 hours. As of Tuesday morning the campaign had raised more than $1,800.

“We are appreciative, but this is a mere drop in the bucket for what will be needed, and soon,” Cornett said. “We are asking our neighbors far and wide to help.”

Some neighbors are already answering the call. Local businesses including the Eagle Eye Tavern, Zoiglhaus Brewpub and the Eastport Walmart have already contributed to the fund.

Zoiglhaus Brewpub, located at 5716 SE 92nd Avenue, right next door to one of the buildings damaged in the fire, is just getting started. They will donate $2 from every Radler sold through this Sunday, November 29, to the families. They will also hold raffle for a $100 gift card. Raffle tickets are $5 and ticket sales will be donated to the fund.

To donate to the fund yourself, visit their GoFundMe page.

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