Eastern Christian Children's Retreat Damaged In Fire: PD

WYCKOFF, NJ - An early morning fire seriously damaged a building at the Eastern Christian Children's Retreat, according to authorities.

Around 4:45 a.m., Wyckoff police, firefighters and ambulance corps, along with several surrounding fire departments, responded to the Mountain Avenue non-profit organization, Lt. Joseph Soto said. Firefighters found the fire inside of the Oak Lodge building and had it out within 20 minutes, Soto said.

Prior to the arrival of first responders, staffed evacuated all of the building's occupants, he said. No serious injuries occurred but minor smoke inhalation was reported by a staff member and three residents. The four individuals were taken to a local hospital for treatment, Soto said.

An investigation into the fire's cause is underway by the town's fire official, however authorities do not believe it appears to be suspicious at this time, the lieutenant said.

In a Facebook post Wednesday morning, the non-profit thanked Wyckoff's first responders and said they are thankful no one was hurt.

"The quick action of staff prevented a disaster and they were able to safely evacuate all of the residents to another house on the premises. Unfortunately, due to the extensive damage, Oak Lodge is uninhabitable," they also said.

A fundraising effort is already underway to help the organization, which provides residential and day programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Donations can be made to ECCR, 700 Mountain Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 or online at ECCRetreat.org.