We are heartbroken to share that on July 15th our queer collective space, The Artillery, has suffered serious damage from a fire that happened in the unit next door. Thankfully, everyone is safe, but the recovery is going to be rough. There's heavy smoke damage throughout the house, and it’s not safe to stay in right now, so all five current members have been displaced.

This place has been more than just our gathering space. It’s where our community has been able to socialize, connect, feed each other, and feel safest in the heart of SOMA. It’s been a second home to many, and right now we really need help getting it back to a place we can share again.

Fortunately the neighbor’s insurance will cover cleaning of the walls, floor, and ceiling, but because we did not have renter’s insurance we need funds to clean/replace our clothes, furniture, counters, appliances, and personal possessions. Again, everything inside is contaminated with sticky, oily smoke damage.

We’re raising money to:

* Clean up and repair fire/smoke damage - every inch of the place needs to be cleaned, and a ton of cleaning products need to be purchased

* Replace furniture, gear, housewaresand basic necessities

* Make the space safe again

* Pay incoming utility bills—we’ve had to keep them on while we go in the house and move/clean/organize

* Support the people who maintained the space in temporary (or permanent) relocation

* Order a toxicology test for the soot in the house so we know exactly what we’re being exposed to

* Purchase clothing while we figure out

If you’ve ever come to party here, crashed on the couch, or just believe spaces like this matter—please donate if you can, and share this fundraiser!

We are one of the very few surviving of such warehouse spaces—originally built out in the 80s—and we have worked incredibly hard to revive and maintain it. Please help us save this piece of San Francisco history and secure our wellbeing as well.

We know that there’s a lot of awful stuff going on in the world right now and that there’s a lot of important efforts that need support, so we’re incredibly grateful for any support that you can give us. We hope to see you all at a recovered Artillery soon.