A fire broke out at a homeless encampment in Elgin, Illinois, and firefighters are currently working to control it, according to city officials.
Elgin fire crews responded to the area of North State and Kimball streets just before 4:50 p.m. for a reported structure fire.
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Upon arrival, the firefighters discovered that two to three structures were on fire, but they managed to bring the situation under control, as reported by Elgin authorities.
The windy conditions and frigid temperatures outside certainly did not help firefighters as they battled flames for a couple hours.
No injuries have been reported, and a thorough search of the area is underway.
There is now a community-wide effort to help those impacted.
“I was surprised by the fire, especially with the strong winds which likely made it worse,” expressed Judy Whalen, an employee at Paul’s Family Restaurant. “It’s heartbreaking to think of those individuals being in such conditions, especially on a cold day like today.”
Paul’s Family Restaurant is now collecting donations for those impacted by the fire.
Dozens of people experiencing homelessness are now displaced from that area where they usually kept their tents and belongings. That’s why the restaurant and others in the community are rushing into action.
“People are very helpful. I think Elgin is a great city for that because everybody looks after each other,” Whalen said.
Community member Jennifer Sullivan is also working to gather donations.
“I just wanted to help,” Sullivan said. “I knew I had something that could maybe make a person warm and posted on my page. I’ve already got people messaging me things are gonna be dropped off here tomorrow… I’m gonna be dropping things off.”
Video of the scene showed massive flames in the area.
It was not immediately clear how the fire started.
Efforts will continue Thursday near the Elgin library to help those in need.
Due to the fire’s proximity to nearby railroad tracks, Metra train service through Elgin has been fully suspended until further notice.
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