Local communities have flocked to support families affected by the devastating Bronx apartment fire that left 17 dead and dozens injured and displaced. Pelham is one of the towns showing tremendous support.

State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi has been one of Pelham’s strongest voices in this effort. Biaggi sent out newsletters with important information on where to give.

Donations were accepted at the Pelham Picture House earlier this week until the Bronx locations could not handle any more items. There still remain ways to give.

In one email, Biaggi wrote, “So far, there has been an enormous outpouring of contributions in the form of clothing and goods, so the best way you can help at this time is by making a monetary donation.”

Many donations have been received by Masjid Ar-Rahama, a Bronx mosque that suffered a loss of several members from the fire. It has served as a place for the grieving to receive support and also a place to assist the city in identifying victims. Detective Mohamed Amen and Imam Musa Kabba were among those helping process donations and provide support.

The following two charities are accepting contributions on behalf of the survivors:

• BStrong, in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission, is distributing kits with basic necessities and cash to survivors.
• The Gambian Youth Organization is accepting contributions via GoFundMe to provide cash directly to survivors.

Those wishing to make a donation also have the option of purchasing goods via an Amazon wishlist.