Help Sindy & Her Team Rebuild Art of Laundry After Devastating East Harlem Fire

On Wednesday evening, a massive four-alarm fire at Santiago's Beer Garden in East Harlem spread to the building next door, devastating my friend Sindy Sagastume's dry cleaning business, Art of Laundry, located at 2337 First Avenue. The business has been issued an issued an "Order of Vacate," which closes it indefinitely until the building is safe again. This can take months to determine, and means the business will remain closed, leaving her employees without work.

What Happened:

Around 6 p.m., fire erupted at the outdoor beer garden on 120th Street and First Avenue. The flames quickly spread through the rear of the adjacent residential building and into Sindy's business, The Art of Laundry, which shares the same rear area. More than 170 firefighters from 45 units battled the blaze, but the damage was extensive — the entire building suffered from fire, smoke, and water damage.

In Sindy's Own Words:

"Still trying to process what happened last night, and remaining hopeful that we can pull thru successfully. Massive 4-alarm fire at Santiago's Beer Garden next door to us was able to migrate to the apartment building and to our shop since we share the same backside.

Grateful for everyone being safe and feeling for the tenants as they could not return to their apartments. I've only seen the damage with a flashlight for less than a minute, so I am preparing and praying.

Thank you for the well wishes, please keep us in your prayers."

Why We're Asking for Help:

Art of Laundry isn't just Sindy's business — it's a livelihood for five employees who depend on their paychecks to support their families. The business will remain closed until officials confirm it's safe to return, and the road to recovery will be long and costly.

How Your Donation Will Help:

Help Art of Laundry reopen and continue serving the East Harlem community

Sindy has built Art of Laundry with dedication and hard work, serving her neighbors with care. Now, she and her team need our support to rebuild.

Every donation — no matter the size — will make a difference. Please consider contributing and sharing this campaign with your network.

Thank you for keeping Sindy, her employees, and the entire East Harlem community in your thoughts during this difficult time.