A community is coming together in Palatine after a devastating fire left dozens of people homeless.
On Sunday, a fire ripped through two neighboring buildings, destroying more than 20 residential units and displacing approximately 50 people.
“A lot of people that live here, have lived here for a long time, a very long time, it’s just very, very sad that everyone lost everything in just a matter of seconds,” said Stefany Vargas, neighbor.
Wind accelerated the spread of the fire, which began on the roof of one of the buildings and quickly spread to the adjacent building.
“It got really foggy, we couldn’t really see anything, I would look outside, we had no windows open, and it was straight smoke. That’s all I could see,” said Vargas.
In addition to the wind, firefighters faced other difficulties, such as a partial roof collapse. The fire was brought under control after more than three hours.
According to the Palatine Fire Department, fire crews remained on the scene until 6 a.m. Monday to ensure that the fire was completely extinguished.
The blaze’s aftermath includes missing walls, scorched appliances, and scattered belongings.
“It was very, very emotional to see that these families don’t have anything to go home to anymore,” said Kassandra Genger, who lives in Palatine.
“It just kind of humbles you a little bit and makes you realize how precious things really are and how quickly they can disappear.”
The St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church is holding a collection drive to help those in need during this difficult time.
“We give thanks to our lord for watching over them so that no one was hurt or obviously killed,” said Reverend Father Chris Mihalopoulos.
“It’s just who we are as Christians, naturally, for each and every one of us to show that not only our doors are open, but that we are here and we’re all neighbors and friends.”
Meanwhile, students from three local schools are among those displaced.
Community Consolidated School District 15 is planning to collect donations for fire victims, according to a letter to families, with more information to be announced in the coming days.
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