
West Philly locals hit by the May 5 inferno get a lifeline. Starting today, the City of Philadelphia, together with several agencies, aims to ease the nightmare for those affected at 49th and Spruce streets. Victims can seek help from noon to 8 p.m., from replacing lost IDs to finding a new roof over their heads. The setup at the MARC (Multi-Agency Resource Center) seeks to quickly provide relief for the numerous needs these residents now face, according to the city's official announcement.
The MARC's opening represents a critical foothold for the residents scrambling to put their lives back together. The list of participating agencies reads like a who's who of local and state services, featuring the American Red Cross and the Office of Homeless Services, among others. Even four-legged friends aren't forgotten, with ACCT Philly Animal Care on hand to aid distressed pets.
From legal advice courtesy of Community Legal Services of Philadelphia to nutritional assistance from Philabundance, the comprehensive help on offer speaks to the depth of community and governmental support. State Representative Rick Krajewski's and Council Member Jamie Gauthier’s offices are also in the mix, bringing political heft to the hands-on help.
Moreover, personal recovery will be catered to through initiatives like the Mayor’s Commission on Aging and housing strategies spearheaded by the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation. It's clear the city is determined to quickly help piece back together the fragments of lives shattered by the blaze. For more info, check out their official release here.