Blaze at Penn Hills apartments displaces dozens, donations being accepted
Dozens of residents were displaced by a fire early Saturday at the Rodi Arms apartments in Penn Hills.
Officials told Tribune-Review news partner WPXI-TV no one was injured in the blaze that began as a kitchen fire shortly after midnight and spread to the attic of the three-story building in the 300 block of Rodi Road.
Firefighters remained on the scene after daybreak dousing hot spots in the heavily damaged structure.
WPXI-TV reported a Port Authority bus served as an initial warming center for those who were displaced during frigid weather. Another warming center was established at the Penn Hills Senior Center on Jefferson Road.
The Red Cross responded to provide assistance.
Donations accepted
Donations for the displaced families are being accepted at a Penn Hills location, the Western PA Search & Rescue Development Center, 1405 Frey Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235.
“We have already received an outpouring of those wishing to donate everything including food, clothing, furniture, gift cards and cash,” said Matt Mitcheltree, sales and marketing director at the center. “We certainly appreciate any and all help to our community as we rally our efforts.”
Questions about donating through the organization may be emailed to info@operationtakemehome.org.
Jeff Himler is a TribLive reporter covering Greater Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Mt. Pleasant Area and Derry Area school districts and their communities. He also reports on transportation issues. A journalist for more than three decades, he enjoys delving into local history. He can be reached at jhimler@triblive.com.
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