On December 20th, a 5-alarm fire ripped through my dear friend Lauren Koenig’s apartment building in Sunnyside, Queens, displacing her and over 400 of her friends and neighbors. The cause? An unauthorized use of a blow torch.

Most escaped with just the clothes on their backs and the important items they had the presence of mind to grab as they ran for their lives. She and her neighbors are fortunate to be alive but faced with the daunting task of having to rebuild their lives and find new homes.

Lauren always loved her building and community. A reflection of NYC’s rich diversity in every way, this special place had been her home since she moved to New York from Chicago in 2010. Because of this week’s devastating fire, this is no longer the case for any of its residents.

She and her neighbors may have lost their homes, but they are working to help one another however they can right now. Losing possessions—not to mention a sense of security and daily comfort—is especially acute when the world is celebrating.

Like her neighbors, Lauren is faced with rebuilding her life piece by piece. She is a single woman who has worked hard to get to where she is. That won’t change, but this is probably the hardest challenge she’s faced. She’s trying to remain strong.

Lauren was the type to have fire extinguishers in her apartment and even a fire ladder. Insurance will barely cover the displacement as Lauren lives in a rent stabilized apartment and today, market value apartments will not allow her to stay in her beloved neighborhood and city.

Lauren’s closest people welcome the love and generosity of those able to offer support at this time and appreciate any gift, large or small. Even if you aren’t able to financially give, sharing this link with those who might be able to donate is a huge help.

This whole experience is a reminder of what’s important in life—family, friends, a caring community, our health. We are so grateful for you.

Hoping for a safe, happy, and restorative 2024.

You can see some of the coverage here: https://abc7ny.com/apartment-fire-building-fdny-queens/14210571/