Community Corner

Carpenter's Shelter Damaged in Fire, Asks Community for Help

A small electrical fire spurred the shelter to need to raise more than $10,000 for repairs.

About a week and a half ago, Carpenter's Shelter experienced an electrical fire and has launched a special Fire Relief Campaign to help pay for the costs of damage to the shelter.

While the fire damage was minimal, the smoke and water damage was extensive with a total cost of more than $42,000 for repairs.

The shelter's Alex Stevens said after insurance, the shelter will still need to come up with about $10,000 for repairs.

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Stevens said a device at the shelter called a Packtite, designed to kill bedbugs on clothing, caught fire.

"Thankfully the fire damage was contained to only the Packtite, and the items inside, however the water damage and structural damage is where the repair costs have added up," he said.

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Carpenter’s Shelter is based in Old Town Alexandria and helps the homeless achieve sustainable independence through shelter, guidance, education and advocacy. It serves more than 1,000 homeless and formerly homeless individuals every year.

Here's more info on how to donate.

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