More than a dozen older adults can't go home to their apartments because of a fire over the weekend.
Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, they don't seem to mind living at a local community center.
A three-alarm apartment fire broke out at the Paraclete Manor Apartments at 2600 Swope Parkway just before 12 p.m. Saturday.
Several people were taken to the hospital for treatment. Others were transported to the Gregg Klice Community Center, where the American Red Cross offered emergency housing and assistance.
Tom Ashton is a volunteer with the American Red Cross. He said 15 people are currently being housed at the community center, where they are also providing displaced residents with food and personal necessities.
"It's a very dynamic situation. The fire is still being investigated and the cleanup is in process. We're working with the apartment complex to see when we can get these people back in the apartment. If they can't get back in their apartment, what alternative options are available," said Ashton.
Workers at the Gregg Klice Community Center grilled hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken to help their new visitors enjoy the Labor Day holiday. A kind gesture deeply appreciated by Gwendolyn Boyd who lived on the 3rd floor of Paraclete Manor before the fire.
"I'm just glad there are people out here that come to your aid. They've all been very nice and friendly. We've become like a little mini family. It's wonderful," said Boyd.
The fire damaged the second and third floors of the building. Residents on the higher floors are still living in the building.
Property management did not talk to us on camera but said they are still working to repair the damage.
Some of the residents were hospitalized in serious condition. We have not received an update on their conditions.
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Lisa Benson can be reached at lisa.benson@kshb.com.
