City establishes fund to support victims of Borough Park blast

Help is on the way for those impacted by the recent Borough Park explosion.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Thursday, October 8 the launch of the Borough Park Relief Fund – a support-system sponsored by the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, in partnership with the Borough Park Jewish Community Center, the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross and The Salvation Army, as well as a number of local elected officials, aimed at financially supporting those residents and business owners affected by the blast.

“The city’s brave first responders were on the ground immediately following the tragic gas explosion and building collapse on Saturday, working tirelessly to save New Yorkers and their homes,” said de Blasio of the incident, which occurred on Saturday, October 3 near the intersection of 13^th Avenue and 42^nd Street. “But our city still suffered a senseless loss of life – and many in the area are now without a stable home and their belongings.”

“In times of tragedy, the people of New York City come together. Nothing can bring back lives lost, but I’m proud that our collective efforts might help ease the suffering and support rebuilding,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray, chair of the Mayor’s Fund. “In this city, we look out for each other. I’m confident that, with this fund, New Yorkers will again show the generous spirit that makes this city great.”

Brooklyn Chamber President and CEO Carlo Scissura echoed McCray’s sentiments.

“New Yorkers never shy away from helping one another, and the people of Borough Park affected by this tragedy are in need of help now more than ever,” he said. “I encourage all residents and businesses to donate whatever they can to assist the victims on their road to recovery.”

In addition to the fund, the Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management has established a resident support center at the Borough Park branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (1265 43^rd Street), where residents and businesses can receive assistance with city services, including securing interim housing.

“Our communities respond with compassion in times of crisis,” said Councilmember Brad Lander, noting that, even in hours of unimaginable grief, families like that of missing tenant Francisca Figueroa stepped up to the plate and bought pizza for first responders. “This fund is an extension of that spirit.”

Those interested in contributing to the fund can donate online at nyc.gov/bprelief, or by mailing a check, made payable to “the Borough Park Relief Fund” to the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City (253 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10007).