In the early morning hours of New Year's Day, three Luling families lost their homes when the apartment building they lived in caught fire and was destroyed. Thankfully, all of the residents escaped the burning structure unharmed.

United Way of St. Charles provided $4,500 in immediate financial assistance to the families to help replace necessary personal items and secure new residences.

"Around 3 a.m. on New Year's Day, my family and I woke up to my neighbors screaming 'fire'," stated Mr. D.M., a resident of the burned apartment building.

"We had lived at that location for about six months and had just renovated the apartment with new window units in each room. Now everything we own is gone-furniture, clothing, baby items. We lost everything except the clothes on our backs. We can't thank United Way enough for all of their help during this difficult time."

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