Pocono News Section

A.R.W. Undaunted by Fires

A.R.W. Undaunted by Fires - Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at 4:44PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Tuesday, Jul 8, 2008 @ 04:44pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

A charitable ministry in Central Pennsylvania has been struck by fire for the second time in just a few months. We spoke with some of the people affected who say the adversity only makes them stronger.

"The American Rescue Workers, their main goal is to help people better their lives, and I think they do a wonderful job of it," Richard Shade explained.

Shade has been at the American Rescue Workers' men's shelter for nearly three years. He's a recovering alcoholic who knows the importance of the charity's work here in the Williamsport area. Shade added, "I think I'm going to be a better man for the experience of being here."

The A. R.W.'s warehouse building was struck by fire Monday evening. Colonel Dawn Astin, the A. R.W.’s Co-Commanding Officer, says she noticed a burning smell before seeing flames coming from a third floor furniture shop.

The fire started in a barrel of rags. A sprinkler system helped contain the flames, but the damage was done. Astin said, "Smoke goes up and water comes down. And so we have water damage from the 3rd floor down and some smoke damage on the 4th floor."

Part of the third floor was condemned because of combustible materials stored there.

The A. R.W.'s offices, men's shelter, and thrift store are still open. Volunteers say two fires in a 4-month span have been frustrating and overwhelming.

The American Rescue Workers' church building here on Ross Street was also struck by fire. That happened back in mid-March and caused nearly half a million dollars in damages. Repairs are still being completed here.

But those involved with the A. R.W. are not giving up. They say they're ready to move on. Richard Shade noted, "The 'why' doesn't matter. It's what can you get out of it positively."

Astin added, "We ask that the public be patient with us while we get our operations back in order and then after that, we'll pick up and go from here."

The American Rescue Workers will be forced to temporarily stop accepting furniture donations until that building is cleaned up and inspected.

Monetary donations can be mailed to or dropped off at their office at 643 Elmira Street in Williamsport.