June 12, 2020
On Friday, June 12th a group of local politicians came to survey the devastation left behind from the fire at Pine Lodge on May 31st, and to meet with residents and community leaders.
During their visit, Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, State Senator David Carlucci, Mayor Rosario Presti and Deputy Mayor Grant Valentine all pledged their support to help those affected by the fire and to assist in rebuilding Pine Lodge.
NY State Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee has been a long time friend and support to the Fellowship Community.
During the visit last week, she remarked "I felt terrible when I heard about the situation with the fire, but at least nobody was injured.
I will work with you and see how I can be of assistance, as you move forward and rebuild."
NY State Senator David Carlucci also lent his support, saying "the Fellowship Community is an example for the rest of the state and the rest of the nation, of what can be possible, ...with healthcare done that is integrative and in the least restrictive setting."
He continued "The elected officials here will rally behind you to help you rebuild. We know, with the team we have here, that you'll build back bigger, and stronger than before."
Chestnut Ridge Mayor Rosario Presti shared words of support. He remarked that "the village (of Chestnut Ridge) will do the best it can to continue to support you."
Looking to the future, he added "the next building is going to be green, and state of the art. We'll look at the positive. When the residents come back, their new home is going to be beautiful, and something that everyone will be proud of."
"When I look at this, my heart just goes out" noted Chestnut Ridge Deputy Mayor, Grant Valentine. "Fortunately no-one got hurt. We can always rebuild a building, but we can't rebuild lives."
He went on to say, "Senior citizens are the fastest growing population in Rockand County. We here in Chestnut Ridge will do all we can to help, because this place is a vital resource for Rockland County."
We will need significant funds to rebuild a new residence and restore the homes lost in the fire.
The exact costs to replace and rebuild are currently being assessed, but the Fellowship Community has already started a fundraising campaign to rebuild Pine Lodge.
The outpouring of donations has been so heartening, and we are thankful to all of you who have already generously contributed!
You can donate here to support the Fellowship Community and those directly affected by the fire at Pine Lodge.
Thank You.
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