Coaster Photo
16 residents of Brighton Arms apartments in Neptune City had to be evacuated following an early morning fire Dec. 15.
By DENISE HERSCHEL
An early morning fire Dec. 15 at the Brighton Arms apartment complex in Neptune City destroyed at least eight apartments, affecting 16 peoples’ lives including five young children. Although there were no serious injuries one elderly resident was taken to the hospital to be checked for smoke inhalation.
“Thankfully due to the swift action of the Neptune City Fire Department, the Neptune City Police Department and mutual aid from other neighboring towns, there were no serious injuries or other injuries,” Brian Thomas, Neptune City Council President, said. “Currently the cause of the fire is still being investigated but right now we are concentrating on providing help to our residents in need.”
First responders were able to move residents to the Neptune City Community Center to recuperate and provide shelter. Thomas said it became a staging ground to provide emergency services and assistance from the Red Cross.
“The Community Center is a great resource for the borough and is ready to be used to aid people at a moment’s notice,” he said. “Now the center is helping with the recovery by being the collection point for donations for all of the families. Right now the borough is working through the Neptune City Police Department with the Red Cross to situate housing. PRC, the management firm for Brighton Arms, has been a great partner in placing families along with Commissioner Thomas Arnone.”
The Neptune City Community Center began almost immediately collecting donations for residents and in the early morning hours residents and local businesses had already begun donating food and clothing.
“The NCPD made the request to have the Community Center opened to offer residents shelter. Within a short period of time, the doors were open and the center ready,” he said.
Donations can be dropped off to the Neptune City Community Center between noon and 8pm during the week or to Neptune City borough hall. Gift cards, blankets, toiletries, and linens are all welcome. Toys, gifts, and school supplies for the young kids would also be greatly appreciated.
“We are asking that any monetary donations be made in the form of gift cards to allow residents to make purchases. So many local businesses have sent food, collected donations, and have offered services to the families,” Thomas said.
For more information about helping with the Brighton Arms assistance contact Neptune City borough administrator Al Jardine at 732-776-7224 or Brian Thomas at bthomas@neptunecitynj.com or call 732-556-8519.
