Cicero community rallies to support victims of devastating apartment fire

CICERO, Ill. - Nearly two weeks until Christmas, a devastating apartment fire in Cicero is forcing more than a dozen families to start over – but with the help of strangers, they aren’t doing it alone.

Around 1 a.m. last Friday, a massive fire broke out at a three-story apartment building located in the 1600 block of South Austin Boulevard. Crews battled the blaze, but flames tore through all 18 units, displacing 17 families. One unit was not occupied.

"It’s been hell," said Trainette Lark, who lost everything in the fire.

The American Red Cross stepped up to assist families with housing, and in the meantime, Cicero residents made it their mission to help.

Through social media posts and word-of-mouth, it didn't take long to mobilize the community. Within hours of the fire, residents got to work collecting thousands of items for the displaced families.

"It was unfortunate that we had to go through this around the holiday, but everyone stood together to pull together," said Lark. "A lot of families have their own things going on right now and they still took time out to donate, that’s beautiful."

Lark lived in the building for eight years with her mom and two young nephews.

On Friday – exactly one week since their lives were turned upside down – Lark and other residents were invited by officials to Cicero's Public Safety Building. There, the main hall was packed to the brim with clothing, shoes, blankets, kitchen items, toiletries, and other necessities.

"[The community] came out in full force, and we’re just so appreciative to help these families that completely lost everything," said Maria Punzo-Arias, clerk, Town of Cicero.

For Jennifer Salgado, it's about more than her lost belongings; she is thinking about the memories with her late mom, who passed away in 2017.

"She took her last breath there, so everything’s gone," said Salgado.

While the donated items won't replace what Salgado is now missing, they will provide comfort this holiday season.

Each family also received $200 in Visa gift cards from local bank, Central Federal Savings & Loan Association.

"Every little bit helps, you know so we just felt like we could do a gift card, and help people get up back on their feet," said Gary Nation, president & CEO, Central Federal Savings & Loan Association.

A difficult journey ahead – made easier when others lend a hand.

"There’s always hope, and there’s people who are sensitive to someone else having a need, and to be able to see that everyone comes together," said Ismael Vargas, Cicero Police/Fire Chaplain.

Incredibly, no one was hurt in the fire. The cause is still under investigation.

A city official tells FOX 32 Chicago that the damage is so bad, it's possible the entire building will need to be demolished.