Donations sought after West Mifflin fire
The family lost virtually everything in the Sunday morning blaze, including their car and a dog.
Fire officials are investigating after a devastating early-morning house fire Sunday in West Mifflin.
Firefighters from several departments were called to a home in the 3000 block of Wood Street around 2:45 a.m.
Crews arrived to find the house engulfed in heavy flames and thick smoke.
Allegheny County dispatchers confirmed that four people were taken to area hospitals following the fire.
A family friend later reported that all four people got out safely and are staying in a hotel.
In the wake of the fire, family members are asking the community for help.
Kristen Schwalm shared a post on social media seeking donations for her niece and nephews, who lost everything in the fire, including their car and a family pet.
The post said the woman and her three children escaped with only the clothes they were wearing to bed.
They are in need of clothing, shoes, toiletries and food.
Requested sizes include: women’s XL with size 10 shoes for the mother; men’s large with size 9 shoes for a teenage boy; youth size 7/8 with size 1Y shoes for the youngest boy; and size 3T with size 7C shoes for the youngest girl.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Schwalm or Carolyn Marie privately on Facebook to coordinate drop-off or pick-up arrangements.
Homeville Volunteer Fire Company – Station 293 will serve as a collection location Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m.
“This morning Station 293 responded to a residential structure fire, we will have an official post tomorrow (today) regarding the incident, but wanted to offer our services as a collection location,” the fire company posted on Facebook. “We will be happy to assist with the collection of items and work to have them delivered to … the family.”
In addition to donations of needed clothes and other items, the fire company will also take monetary donations to purchase gift cards for the family.
Firefighters say the home is a total loss.
The cause of the fire has not been determined as the investigation remains ongoing.
In addition to crews from several departments, first responders and fire marshal, the Salvation Army Canteen also responded to the scene.
Our news partner at WTAE contributed to this report.
