Church collects items for victims of blaze

SHARON, Pa. -- The Westside Baptist Church in Sharpsville will be collecting clothing and small household items to assist the 12 families displaced by a fire that destroyed the former Russell Street School on Sunday.
The cause of the blaze, which did an estimated $400,000 damage, remains undetermined. Authorities said it started in the utility room of a first-floor apartment.
The blaze left about 50 people homeless and the American Red Cross and other agencies are helping them. The Red Cross said Tuesday that it had spent more than $7,000 for temporary housing, food and other items.
The Westside Baptist Church has offered to provide a drop-off point for donated clothing and small household items from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday at 17 E. Main St., Sharpsville. No large furniture will be accepted.
The Red Cross said its financial resources are becoming dangerously low and it is looking for financial support from the community.
To make a donation, contact the Mercer County chapter at (724) 981-3205.