Seven displaced families staying at Super 8

Unions, the Red Cross and members of the community have offered assistance.
By JOHN W. GOODWIN JR.
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
LIBERTY -- A recent fire in the township displaced seven families and caused extensive damage, but area residents are lending a helping hand to those affected.
Youngstown and Vienna fire departments were the first to respond to the Tuesday fire at the Deville Apartments, 2904 and 2901 Gypsy Lane. They were quickly joined by Liberty, Howland and Brookfield. No one was injured in the blaze, but loss is estimated at $150,000 to $200,000.
Firefighters have not determined the cause. Fire Chief Michael Durkin said arson has been ruled out, but officials are planning further investigation.
When firefighters extinguished the flames and the smoke had cleared, the seven families in the nine-unit building were left with the reality of finding alternative shelter against the cold. Some of the displaced tenants were permitted to stay in the nearby lobby of Forum Health Northside Medical Center on Tuesday night.
Providing support
Township Trustee Jodi Stoyak spoke with fire and police officials and learned that unions affiliated with both branches of township safety services were eager to help.
"The police and firemen are always willing to help out, and I think the public, once they see it in the paper, will give to these unions so they can go out and get the things that are needed."
Stoyak said her next call was to Guido Jannetti of the Mahoning Chapter American Red Cross, which was already assisting the families, and a course of action was developed.
Jannetti said the Red Cross must provide the same level of services to everyone and therefore cannot accept donations targeted to one group. Those wishing to assist the families, however, can buy a night's stay at the Super 8 Motel in Liberty, donate to the police unions or donate to the Red Cross to help replenish funds spent in the immediate assistance of the families.
"We are known as first responders. We come in and offer food, clothing and shelter. Beyond that, we network with other agencies and individuals and companies who come forward," he said.
How others can help
The Red Cross is paying for each of the displaced families, about 14 people in all, to stay at the Super 8 Motel for two nights. Members of the community can step in and pay for additional nights directly to the motel.
Super 8 manager Sylvia Harris said no one had come forward to pay for any additional nights as of late Wednesday afternoon, but several people had called to see how they could help. She said one night at the motel would cost $42.30.
"A couple of people have called to see how they can help, and I have been on the phone trying to see where [the families] can get some help," Harris said. "It is devastating to lose everything this way."
The displaced families may not have to stay at the motel long. Jannetti said several members of the community have offered help, including three area landlords who have offered assistance such as reduced security deposits and 30 days rent-free occupancy.
Jannetti said other members of the community have offered free meals to the families, as well as clothes and furniture.
Those wishing to donate can call township fire and police unions at (330) 759-1315, or donations to the Red Cross can be made by calling (330) 726-6063. The Super 8 Motel in Liberty can be reached at (330) 759-0040.
jgoodwin@vindy.com