Comal County Crisis Center (CCCC) CEO Julie Strentzsch said she’s very touched by community outreach in the hours since a fire Wednesday night destroyed half of its shelter for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.
No injuries were reported and all residents at the shelter were safely relocated after shelter staff smelled smoke and discovered a room in the building engulfed in flames.
New Braunfels Fire Department responded to the blaze at 1547 E. Common St. around 7 p.m. Firefighters closed then reopened the street to traffic around 10:45 p.m. Utilities were briefly disconnected during the fire.
Strentzsch said the building is not a total loss. Half of the facility will need to be completely rebuilt while the other half is salvageable.
“The Crisis Center board and the staff have very grateful hearts today,” she said. “We are grateful for safe clients, and we are grateful for all the outpouring of love and assistance. Our community’s support means the world to us in our time of crisis, our community has generously stepped in to meet our needs. And you are such a blessing. God is good. Thank you to everyone who stepped in to ensure a seamless transition for our clients.
“We will work diligently to rebuild so we can continue to disrupt the cycle of violence through our comprehensive continuum of care,” Strentzsch said.
CCCC has obtained storage units for items salvaged after the fire but still needs:
- Android and iPhone and iPad chargers
- Breakfast, lunch and snack items (individually wrapped)
- Shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, Q-tips, body lotion, body wash, hairbrushes and other personal hygiene items
To make a donation via Paypall visit paypal.me/ccccnbtx or click the donation button on CCCC’s website, crisiscenternb.org.
In-person donations can be made at the nonprofit’s administration center, 1528 E. Common St., Suite 6. For more information call 830-620-7520.
