The fire department battles a four-alarm blaze that struck on Broadway on Nov. 13. As a result of the fire, some PHS students’ homes were destroyed.
The fire that razed two buildings on Broadway on Nov. 13 is a sad challenge for PHS. The four alarm fire, which began after 9 p.m., spread to four buildings, destroying two.
It was tamed by the brave Passaic Fire Department. Some PHS students looked on in horror as their homes were destroyed. PSE&G arrived at the fire to shut off the flammable gas lines, feeding the fire.
As if there were a good time to be the victim of a fire, with the holidays just around the corner, this is the worst time of year to be without a home, all your belongings destroyed. Fifteen Passaic families were displaced. A hundred people are going to be without their homes for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Even though the Senior Center has been set up as a shelter for people who were impacted by this fire, there is no place like home for the holidays. These homes are in ashy ruins.
At least there were no injuries and everyone got out of the fire. These troubling times bring our town community closer together. The PHS community has always come together to help those in need. This tragedy is no different. The Octagon Club immediately jumped into action and rallied student support to help those students who came to school on Thursday morning without their uniforms because all their belongings were burned up in the fire.
Mr. Sheridan, Octagon Club Advisor, organized the support that was already forming within the student body, by collecting any donations that could help the families affected by the fire. “It is just amazing how the PHS family pulls together in times of strife,” said Mr. Sheridan. He added, “it is shocking to see just how generous the PHS community always is.”
One thing is certain, that no matter how bad the situation is, the PHS students pull together and help each other. This time is no different. Students, faculty and other staff assembled a nice collection of donations for families who need them. To those affected by this fire, our prayers and support is with you and for the school as a community, good job PHS!
— Juan Hernandez
