More than $12,000 Raised for Wadena Fire Victims
After a February fire displaced residents of a 12-unit apartment building in Wadena and killed one person, the Initiative Foundation joined forces with local community leaders to create a relief fund, and the community responded with generosity and care.
More than $12,000 was contributed by individuals, businesses and organizations to help the affected residents. The funds have been used to provide essential support, including rent and utility deposits, gift cards for groceries and household needs, car repairs and more.
“This effort reflects the strong spirit of support that runs through Central Minnesota,” said Amy Gray, Initiative Foundation community philanthropy manager. “We’re grateful to everyone who stepped forward to help their neighbors in a time of great need.”
“It has been so wonderful to see generosity and compassion flourish during this time of adversity for those impacted by this fire,” said Pastor Nate Loer, Immanuel Lutheran Church. “It’s been an honor to be part of the team that helped identify and meet the needs of those trying to rebuild their lives.”
A portion of the money raised has been set aside to assist residents with ongoing needs as they continue to recover and rebuild.
“The Initiative Foundation extends our heartfelt thanks to everyone who gave,” said Brian Voerding, Initiative Foundation president. “Your generosity has provided not just financial support, but a strong message of hope and stability to those who are rebuilding their lives after the fire. It’s a powerful reminder of the good we can do together.”
Since its founding nearly four decades ago, the Initiative Foundation has served as a resource hub for Central Minnesota communities. When the unexpected happens, the Foundation team is activated to help Central Minnesota communities build local coalitions, attract outside resources, and to quickly spin up and promote local giving options to aid in the recovery. The Foundation does not charge administrative fees when it hosts disaster response funds.
“One of our most critical roles is supporting communities during times of crisis and greatest need,” said Brian Voerding, Initiative Foundation president. “Our trusted presence and history of community-based work allowed us to move these funds to the resilient folks in Wadena.”
For more information on disaster response offered by the Initiative Foundation, visit ifound.org/community-building/disaster-relief.
Background on the Fire
Firefighters and police were called to the scene near Bryant Avenue and Second Street Southeast, about a block east of the post office, at 10:46 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16. Crews from Wadena and Verndale were on scene all night and into Monday morning fighting the fire. An adjacent apartment building also was evacuated as temperatures dropped to -10 degrees.