12-26-13 ripon fire victims donations update

The Watson Street Fire Recovery Committee says the public’s generosity in making donations to help victims of a  downtown fire has been “stunning” and the victim’s needs have been met.  The committee says it continues to communicate with the families affected and use the donated food, clothing, furniture, housing, gift cards, and cash – to help these families get back on their feet.  The fire earlier this month destroyed three buildings in Ripon’s historic downtown and the apartments above the building.  Nearly two dozen residents were displaced by the fire. In a statement issued this week the committee says at this point it is most prudent and responsible to ask that everyone hold off with any further donations at this time.  The statement says the donations have met the needs, and the cash in the segregated bank account will be adequate as these families settle in and as they rebuild their households.