By Katie Vasquez
A fire tore through a Madison Street apartment building on Jan. 6, displacing dozens of families and injuring five firefighters and one resident, according to fire officials.
The blaze left a lasting impression on students at nearby Notre Dame Catholic Academy, some of whom witnessed the fire firsthand or felt its impact in the days that followed.
“I was actually driving past when, like, the fire was happening, and it was really. I feel really bad for them,” said Stella Sewell, an eighth grader at the school.
Sophie Weremczuk, a sixth grader who lives a few blocks away, said the effects lingered.
“I could still smell the smoke to this day,” she said.
Moved by what they saw, students and staff at the Ridgewood Catholic school organized a community-wide donation drive to help families forced from their homes.
“We’re actually in the heart of what happened, only a few steps away,” said Lisa Leistman, assistant principal at Notre Dame Catholic Academy. “I thought that it was our duty as a Catholic school to come together, because we do serve our community and they’re very important to us.”
The school collected clothing, toiletries and other essential supplies, including items often overlooked during emergency relief efforts.
“I have been able to donate, like pet food because I’m a pet owner of two cats myself,” said Hanna Stsepaniuk, a sixth grader. “And I feel really, sad for these people.”
Fifth grader Sara Trejgis said participating in the drive made her feel hopeful.
“I wouldn’t want this to happen to me,” she said. “I feel like this will help them.”
Principal Judy Munno said the school was overwhelmed by the generosity of its families but not surprised.
“Our families are incredibly supportive,” Munno said. “Any time there’s a need, they step up, and we’re very grateful.”
Educators said the effort also served as a lesson in service and compassion for students.
“I wanted to help them get back on their feet faster,” Sewell said.
“It teaches us that even if we don’t know someone, we can still help,” Stsepaniuk added. “It’s about responsibility, caring, and love.”
The FDNY is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. School leaders said they hope the donations will provide some comfort to families as they begin to rebuild.