LITTLETON, Colo. — Arapahoe County Commissioners have created a way for the public to help the seniors affected by The Windermere apartment fire.
The county commissioners established a fund through its foundation to accept donations for the seniors displaced by the apartment fire on Nov. 17.
More than 160 seniors were displaced by the fire, which killed a 70-year-old man, and are in need of temporary housing solutions, according to the county. The residents were told on Tuesday that their leases will be terminated, and many will not be able to return to their apartments due to damage in the structure and health risks. Those who can return to their apartments will soon be asked to pack and move all of their belongings, according to the county. Others have been told they’ll never be able to retrieve their items due to the damage.
READ MORE: Residents at Windermere senior apartment complex can't return in 'near future,' city says after fire
Many of these seniors do not have the financial resources to cope with this disaster, so the Arapahoe County Commissioners created the fund to help with their security deposits and other rental requirements. In addition, Arapahoe County Community Resources staff is working to find housing options for the seniors.
“We’re calling upon the community to help raise funds for the victims of the fire,” said Board of County Commissioners Board Chair Jeff Baker. “In April of 2016, when the same apartment complex caught on fire, our generous community raised more than $18,000. More victims are in need this time. Help us raise additional funds to support victims of the fire, through needs such as utility deposits, security deposits, moving expenses, initial supplies of food and other basic necessities.”
To contribute to this fundraiser, visit The Windermere Apartments Fire Victims Account through the Arapahoe County Foundation by clicking here. Donors can also send in checks payable to Arapahoe County Foundation to 5334 S. Prince St., Littleton, CO 80120. Include The Windermere Apartment Fire Victims on the memo line of the check.
A resource center is open this week at the Life Center, located at 5804 S. Datura St. in Littleton to help the victims. It is open Tuesday from 1-4 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m.-noon and Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon.
Landlords that have available space for seniors are encouraged to call Arapahoe County Community Resources at 303-738-8040. Citizens call the same line with questions or for more information.