Numerous local nonprofit agencies are joining forces to provide assistance for the families affected by the Gibbs Building fire in downtown Findlay. The Hancock County Disaster Response and Recovery Collaborative will be opening a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) on Wednesday, Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Family Center, 1800 N. Blanchard Ave., to provide resources for the families.
In addition to assistance provided by these agencies, the United Way of Hancock County has set up collection points at all banks in Findlay for those who would like to make monetary donations to assist the families. All funds will go directly to the families to recover. United Way has provided $5,000 in seed funding for the account. Contributions can also be made online at http://liveunitedhancockcounty.org/give. Donors are asked to put “Gibbs Building Fire” in the comment section of the online form.
The purpose of the MARC is to give those affected by the fire the opportunity to meet with agencies that can provide immediate and long term relief in one location at one time. “The members of the Collaborative know that those needing assistance following disasters like this fire are facing a long road to recovery” says Red Cross Executive Director Todd James. “With all the agencies represented in the MARC, we can make it easier and more convenient to get help and start the recovery process right away.”
Member agencies of the Disaster Response and Recovery Collaborative include: American Red Cross, Associated Charities, Blanchard Valley Hospital, Century Health, City of Findlay, Christian Clearing House, CHOPIN Hall, City Mission of Findlay, Findlay City Health Department, Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation/The Family Center, Fire Relief Foundation, H.H.W.P. Community Action Commission, Habitat For Humanity, Hancock County ADAMHS, Hancock County EMA, Hope House, Salvation Army and the United Way of Hancock County.
Donations of gently used furniture, clothing, and housewares for those affected by this fire can be made to the Fire Relief Foundation and CHOPIN Hall. The Fire Relief Foundation has a truck and can assist with pick up of larger items. For information on donating items, contact the Fire Relief Foundation at 419-346-2776 and CHOPIN Hall at 419-422-6401.