UGI Volunteers Answer Call for Help After Fire Damages Senior Homes
29 Feb 2024
When dozens of seniors needed help after a fire, a group of UGI Utilities volunteers stepped in and made it possible for them to return to clean homes.
Fire damaged the B’nai B’rith Apartments in Wilkes-Barre on February 15, leaving many residents temporarily displaced. When the United Way of Wyoming Valley and Red Cross put out a call for help, UGI Utilities was among those that responded, with nine employees volunteering their time to clean the soot and smoke smell out of the apartments.
“The United Way is an extremely important organization that helps countless people and I am so happy to be afforded the opportunity to help when needed. During this event, we were tasked with cleaning the apartment of an elderly resident,” says UGI employee volunteer Carrie Owens. “Seeing the smile and relief on her face after we were done was the best part!”
Over five days, volunteers from throughout the community helped clean 33 apartments.
“When the United Way reached out for help, UGI was the first company to respond,” said Bill Jones, President/CEO of the United Way of Wyoming Valley. “While we could not have been more grateful, we really weren’t surprised. Helping others in times of need is the real reflection of our community and UGI is always willing to lend a hand. Thank you for helping, and, more importantly, for caring. Our community is better because UGI is in it!”
The fire at the senior living complex was ruled accidental. Wilkes-Barre City Major George Brown applauded the efforts of first responders during the fire and called the help of social service agencies afterwards a testament to the care and compassion they provide those in need every day.
UGI Utilities is proud to support the efforts of the United Way of Wyoming Valley and we thank our employees who spring into action when a neighbor is in need.
Follow UGI Utilities on Facebook (@UGIUtilities), Twitter (@UGI_Utilities) and Instagram (@ugiutilities) or visit https://www.ugi.com/community-programs to learn more about how UGI supports the community.