ALLENTOWN, Pa. - s4story -- Following the six-alarm fire at the former American Atelier furniture factory on N. Front St. in Allentown on June 24, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and local partners have launched an emergency relief fund to support households impacted by the fire and help address immediate recovery needs.

The fire began around 8:40 p.m. and was brought under control the following morning at approximately 7:30 a.m. Seven households were affected. One firefighter was injured and there were no reported fatalities.

The American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter provided relief to the impacted residents in the immediate aftermath of the fire, including shelter, food, and emergency supplies. Now, United Way will work with the City of Allentown and Catholic Charities Diocese of Allentown to provide long-term assistance, with 100% of funds going to aid those affected by this disaster.

"In moments like this, families can lose stability and certainty in an instant," said Marci Lesko, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. "We come together at the speed of need when neighbors face unexpected hardship, and our community has shown that time and again. This fund will provide immediate support to affected households and help ensure people have access to the resources they need as they begin to recover."

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Donations can be made online at www.unitedwayglv.org/donate (select "Fire Fund") or via mail (checks payable to UWGLV, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109 – attention "Allentown Fire Fund"). Gift card donations are also encouraged.

United Way partners with the City of Allentown and in coordination with American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter to provide direct assistance to those affected by the June 24 fire.

For additional information or questions on the fund, contact Erin Connelly at 610-807- 5723.

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About United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

United Way fights for the health, safety and education of every person in the Greater Lehigh Valley and envisions communities where every person belongs and every person thrives. We strive to achieve this goal by assessing community needs, raising funds, investing in solutions and mobilizing our community to action. For more information, visit www.UnitedWayGLV.org