Help Cherita Start Over After Building Fire
Donation protected
Hi Friends,
On Wednesday, January 25, my building went up in flames at Harper Square Co-Op in Hyde Park, Chicago (4850 S Lake Park Ave). The fire started a little after 10 am on the 15th floor, and the fire alarms went off around 11 am, well after the fire started. The fire quickly ravaged upwards from the 15th to the 24th floor, destroying multiple units and leaving smoke and water damage to the entire east side of the building.
I was trapped in my apartment on the 19th floor for almost two hours, with smoke engulfing the whole apartment. This is one of the most terrifying things that has happened to me. There was a moment when I didn't think I would make it. Mentally I'm not okay, but physically I'm safe.
At the moment, there are still a lot of unknowns. The building management and board are responding with carelessness for all 133 tenants that were affected. Little to no information has been given, and the staff members have displayed unprofessionalism and heartlessness toward the tenants over the last few days. In addition, they have yet to provide a timeline for us to assess the damage or grab essential items. So far, we are looking at weeks to months before the apartment is habitable again.
I have limited capabilities since I was rescued with only my phone to find housing and living needs. However, my friend gracefully is letting me stay with her as I look for permanent housing and begin rebuilding my life. Asking for help is hard for me, but after well-meaning pressure from my friends, I started this GoFundMe. I need your HELP during this unimaginable life-changing time.
Thank you so much to everyone who has reached out so far. Community is everything to me, and I appreciate you all from the bottom of my heart.
Organizer
Cherita Chavers
Organizer
Chicago, IL