Hello!

I’m Andrea and I’m fundraising for myself.

On January 5th at 3:20 AM, I woke up to the sound of the fire alarm going off in my room. That sound saved my life.

A few minutes later, I left the apartment in my pajamas, taking only my papers, water bottles, a pair of shoes, and a jacket. I had to leave everything behind, but I’m grateful to have survived this massive fire. It was very difficult to leave the building, struggling to breathe and navigating the thick, massive smoke that spread throughout the stairwell. We, along with other residents, watched as the flames completely destroyed the lower deli, then the first floor, and soon spread to the upper floors. Over 200 firefighters and police were on the scene, along with ambulances and a helicopter. The building has since been sealed off and the authorities are not allowing anyone in, so I don't know anything about the condition of the apartment or my belongings. I'm currently staying with a friend out of kindness. The biggest problem in the current situation is that I don't have any personal belongings, clothes, or toiletries because I had to leave everything behind during my escape. I appreciate any help!