University leaders collaborate with area officials and American Red Cross to provide spaces while property managers identify other apartment units available for lengthier stays while repairs proceed
Case Western Reserve University is providing interim housing for residents forced from their East Cleveland apartment complex after a fire earlier this week.
With the support of President Eric W. Kaler, roughly 100 individuals arrived Wednesday afternoon to stay in a north campus residence hall through Sunday.
“We are grateful to President Kaler for supporting our efforts to help these families during such difficult times,” said Public Safety Executive Director Megan Koeth, whom officials initially contacted. “We also appreciate the exceptional cooperation among campus, government and nonprofit leaders in identifying both short- and longer-term solutions.”
In the wake of Monday’s fire, local officials and the Salvation Army had teamed to provide spaces for them to stay through the July 4 holiday. But with those spaces resuming their daily programs yesterday—and repairs at the apartments expected to take at least 30 days—officials asked Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) for an intermediate solution.
Representatives from the university’s public safety, housing and other offices—as well as campus dining provider Bon Appétit Management Co.—quickly developed an option. By Wednesday afternoon, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority had transported the group to the North Residential Village. Volunteers from the American Red Cross will be assisting on site during the residents’ stay; The Daily will update the campus regarding possible donations later this week.
By Sunday, property managers are expected to have found other units in the area for residents to move into while work continues at the Terrace Towers.