Established July 4, 1926
One Year After a Devastating Fire, Straight and Narrow Perseveres On
August 24, 2020
Dear Friends of Catholic Charities,
One year ago today, Catholic Charities, Straight and Narrow experienced 5-alarm Fire. A year later, thanks to help from the community, Straight and Narrow continues to provide a high level of support for those in recover y.
This catastrophe could have easily become a tragedy if not for the brave response from the Paterson Fire Department and other first responders. We are so grateful to all who helped save lives on that day. We also continue to thank our working Straight and Narrow employees, who, when the alarm sounded, acted diligently and professionally.
Contributions and acts of kindness for those impacted by this fire began a year ago and haven’t stopped. Local service organizations went above and beyond in assisting with donations of clothing and needed items for the individuals impacted. Bishop Emeritus Serratelli was on the scene the day of the fire and helped raise needed funds through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. We thank Bishop Sweeney for his support and the support of the Diocesan faithful. Individuals and organizations from around the country have given to assist Straight and Narrow, showing their love and empathy for individuals in recovery. We are truly blessed.
In the past year, we have persevered through a devastating fire and the COVID-19 Pandemic. We will continue to be there for our communities during the most challenging of times.
For a full update please visit:
www.ccpaterson.org/news/fire
Bishop Sweeney (right) with Catholic Charities Board president Rev. Msgr. Herbert Tillyer. Looking on is Straight and Narrow Executive Director Angela Nikolovski, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and Catholic Charities CEO Scott Milliken. On August 7th, Bishop Sweeney presented Catholic Charities with a check for $319,760 to help rebuild Straight and Narrow's 410 building. Photo Credit: Joe Gigli.
A year has passed since the fire at Straight and Narrow, and though it has been a challenging 12 months, we give prayerful thanks to God today for all he has blessed us with.
Thank you all for your continued support and kindness.
Sincerely,
Scott Milliken
Chief Executive Officer
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson
[email protected]