At approximately 6:20am on Monday, March 4, 2024 GRACE staff were alerted to a fire in the women’s dorm. Everyone in the dorm was safely evacuated and a call to 911 was placed. At this time the cause of the fire is under investigation by Gainesville Fire Rescue and we are cooperating fully with their efforts. Here is what we know:

• Staff were able to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher and the building's fire system activated the sprinkler systems. 

• Thanks to the quick actions of our team everyone was evacuated safely and there were no reported injuries at the time of the fire. 

• The dorm has been shut down until Gainesville Fire Rescue has concluded their investigation and gives the all clear that the building is safe to re-occupy. 

Effect on GRACE services: 

• No other programs and services on the GRACE Campus have been affected by the fire. 

• The dorm will remain closed until Gainesville Fire Rescue has concluded their investigation and gives the all clear to return to the building. 

• We have opened the Welcome Center to temporarily relocate everyone until it is safe to return to the dorm. 

Current Emergency Needs: 

• Twin size fitted sheets

• Blankets

• Pillows

• Mens & Women’s Clothing

• Hygiene Products

• Backpacks, duffle bags, suitcases - anything folks can store their belongings in

If you would like to help supply any of these items please contact our Donor Care Team by sending a message to donorcare@gracemarketplace.org. Click here to view the Amazon Wish List.

We would like to thank the quick actions of our team for following emergency procedures and getting everyone evacuated safely. We’d also like to thank the quick response of first responders, Gainesville Fire Rescue, and the City of Gainesville. Thank you to the team at The Best Restoration for immediately dispatching crews to help with restoration efforts. Our partners at The Best Restoration are onsite and ready to start restoration efforts as soon as we can re-occupy the building.

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