By Nicole June
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – After 20 families were displaced by a major fire at Ashford Place Apartments Wednesday, members of the Clarksville community have stepped up to help those who have lost everything in the blaze.
Numerous people have reached out via social media to find out how they can be of assistance.
Pastor Jason Bell with Pardue Memorial Free Will Baptist Church (1895 Memorial Drive) contacted the Red Cross to find out more. He said the church has partnered with the organization to serve as a drop-off point for donations.
The victims will be able to visit the church to pick up any items they may need.
Bell said his church does not know specifics about the families due to privacy concerns from the Red Cross, but clothes and household goods are generally needed.
“They may need pots and pans, household goods, and other things to get reestablished,” he said.
In times of disaster, families can also use gift cards for big-box stores in order to shop for necessary items and toiletries.
Bell said any items left over will be donated to the Salvation Army. For more information, contact Pardue Baptist Church at 931-648-0459.
The fire broke out Monday afternoon at the Memorial Drive complex and caused extensive damage. The Crow Recreation Center at 211 Richview Road has been temporarily closed to the public to serve as a shelter for the families who were displaced.
Deputy Fire Chief Ray Williams said no one was injured and the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.