HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Mayor’s Fire Relief Fund has exceeded its goal raising $100,000 in support of those who were displaced by the deadly New Year’s Day apartment building fire on North East Street, according to Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse.
With the help of more than 1,100 donations from individuals as well as local businesses and organizations, the fund reached $103,908 in three weeks’ time. Morse said in a statement that the money will be dispersed to the families in need as soon as possible.
The fire broke out at 106 North East St., taking the lives of three people and displacing 49 people.
“I want to thank every single person who contributed to helping these families,” Morse said in a statement. “This is a reflection of how strong, caring, and dedicated our community is to its people.”
The funds are being managed by the Greater Holyoke Chamber Centennial Foundation and there will be a review process with all victims to distribute the funds based on the specific needs of those who lost their homes. After assisting victims of the North East Street fire, the Mayor’s Fire Relief Fund will continue to collect donations and provide relief in the case of future fires.