Chamber works to help the fire victims

Long Branch — The Greater Long Branch Chamber of Commerce is still accepting monetary donations to help the victims of the West End Fire on Monday, but no longer need household goods. They are also arranging a fundraiser, scheduled for Feb. 29.

Susan Woolley, of the Chamber, reports that they have been inundated with donations to help the dozen families who lost their apartments, and no longer has  space to store them.

“Everyone’s been wonderful,” she said.

They are still accepting gift cards, checks (made out to West End Fire Relief Fund) and cash dropped off at Central Jersey Bank, 627 Second Avenue attention Carol Feldman.

Woolley reports that they are also working with the apartment dwellers to find new places to stay, and also helping the displaced businesses.

One of the ways they are collecting for this project is for a fundraiser, slated for Feb. 29, 6-9 p.m. at the Ocean Place Resort. Admission is $35. Tickets were being printed on Thursday, Feb. 16, and will be available at the chamber offices (732-222-0400) and various other places.

The evening will feature, among other things, food prepared by various Long Branch chefs, and donated wines and beers. The Ocean Place Resort has donated the ballroom for the occassion.

Originally published Feb. 16, 2012