NEW ROCHELLE, NY — As firefighters battled an intense apartment fire at 90 Union Street for hours, dozens of families were forced out of their homes and into the streets on a bitterly cold winter afternoon in New Rochelle.
With windchill, temperatures got down to zero degrees Fahrenheit. Water poured onto the fire turned the building into an ice palace.
The Red Cross Greater New York partnered with The Fuller Center For Housing For Geater New York City and Monroe College to provide shelter, supplies, services and support to dozens of households.
“Red Cross has been helping residents displaced by a multiple alarm fire on Union Street in New Rochelle,” said a Red Cross spokesperson. “Red Cross and local partners initially opened a Reception Center at the Fuller Center on Main Street in New Rochelle where residents could gather, eat and register with the Red Cross.”
Firefighters Battle 3-Alarm Fire in New Rochelle (with video)
60 apartments were impacted by the fire.
As the fire continued to burn Monday, about 50 people were transported to The Fuller Center For Housing For Geater New York City at 524 Main Street in New Rochelle where a dozen families met with Red Cross caseworkers.
Monroe College offered the Monroe Athletic Center as temporary housing for those in need. Red Cross caseworkers were expected on the scene this afternoon. Dozens of cots were set up on the Monroe Mustangs basketball court.
“For those who need a place to sleep tonight, Red Cross opened a shelter at the Monroe College Athletic Center at 19 Lecount Place in New Rochelle,” said the Red Cross.
“Our teams will continue to work with residents in the days to come to provide additional services and support, including casework, emotional support and health assistance.”
The City School District of New Rochelle went to remote learning for students at Trinity Elementary School.
“Due to a fire on Union Street that caused a smoke odor in the building, Trinity Elementary School will be on virtual learning today to enable crews to address any air and cleaning issues,” said a District spokesperson.
I hope New Rochelle will never have to fight a fire in one of these many hi rises that are being built!