For Immediate Release

Friday, Dec. 23, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

City of Methuen Announces Relief Efforts for Fire Victims

METHUEN — Mayor Stephen Zanni and Chief Joseph Solomon announce that relief efforts are in place to assist the Methuen residents who were displaced after the building fire at 11 Ashton Place last night.

Just after 9 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 22, Methuen Police and Fire responded to a two-alarm fire at 11 Ashton Place. The apartment building, which houses 21 units, is considered a total loss. Overall, 21 families – approximately 50 people – are displaced, including six children.

The city has received the following cash donations, which will be allocated to the victims:

• City of Methuen – $5,000
• Mayor Steve Zanni – $1,000
• Methuen Firefighters – Local 1691 – $1,000
• Methuen Police Patrolman’s Association – $500
• Methuen Police Superior Officers Association – $500
• Methuen City Council – $500

Residents who wish to donate money to the victims of the fire can drop off a check made out to the “City of Methuen” to the following locations:

• Methuen Fire Department, Central Fire Station, 24 Lowell St.
• Methuen Police Department, 90 Hampshire St.Residents who wish to make an electronic donation can visit the Debbie’s Treasure Chest website. All donations made to Debbie’s Treasure Chest from today through Jan. 1 will be donated to the victims.

Residents from Ashton Place who need to access the building to retrieve personal items are asked to contact the Methuen Fire Department at 978-983- 8940. Residents will be allowed access the property on Saturday, Dec. 24, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Victims from the fire who need assistance from the American Red Cross (between today and Tuesday, Dec. 26 ), must call 1-800- 564-1234.

Those displaced from the fire can speak with officials to discuss state aid by reporting to Sanborn Hall at the Methuen Police Station, 90 Hampshire St., on Tuesday, Dec. 27, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

###