Community Comes Together for Peekskill Fire Victims

The amount of outpouring shown by the community in response to the March 21 fire at Lakeview Drive has been overwhelming, according Red Cross officials.

"It was extraordinary," said Abigail Adams, a American Red Cross of Greater New York. "We're just so grateful for everyone who has come together, especially during the holidays."

People that have come forward to help include the owners of the Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant, who are providing a complimentary Easter dinner for fire victims; and Child's World Academy, which is offering temporary childcare at no charge to the families.

A list of drop off locations for people who want to donate items to the families can be found here. All of the items will be dropped off at the Peekskill Elks Lodge, located at 1038 Brown St.

Jessica Cinquanta, who is spearheading collection and sorting operations at the Elks Lodge, said her group will be at the Elks Lodge for the next two weeks. They will be at there until 5 p.m. today and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.

Volunteers are also welcome. People can just walk in or contact the Elks Lodge in advance at bpoe744@optimum.net or (914) 737-0744.

"Also, for students who need community service, we are filling out the community service papers for schools, confirmations students, Girl Scout, Cub Scouts....," Cinquanta said. "We'll also be giving students a letter stating that they did do community service."