“It’s a Blessing”: Families displaced after the fire at St. Paul’s apartment receive donations

ST. PAUL, Min — After a fire in St. Paul displaced more than a dozen families last week, generous Minnesota residents are stepping up to the rescue.

Fireworks caused a fire at an apartment complex in St. Paul on Saturday, leaving about 40 people without homes. A total of 16 households had to move from a now-condemned building in the Highland Park neighborhood. Only three had renters insurance, according to management.

“You forget the little things like q-tips, toilet paper, things in the kitchen, utensils,” said Francisco Arroyo.

Arroyo said he’s already spent more than $1,000 this week, but he and his neighbors received huge help from the landlord — Mid-Continent Management — and the St. Paul Jewish Community Center. The community center collected all children from donated goods to help families like the Arroyos get back on their feet.

Despite a vacancy rate of only 3%, Mid-Continent Management finds new apartments for 11 households. Managers hope they will invest in tenant insurance.

“It’s not an overwhelming cost. It’s not even based on unit size,” says Angie French of Mid-Continent Management.

For the Arroyos, the whole experience is overwhelming.

“It’s just a blessing.” Arroyo said.

The landlords are still collecting donations, and managers in particular say residents need kitchen items and furniture. If you would like to donate, please drop off items at the management office at 37 East Isabel Street in St. Paul.