Downtown Springfield victims of June fire get funds for recovery

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) – Last month, a fire in downtown Springfield destroyed several businesses and impacted nearby residents. Now, the victims are set to receive more than $18,000 from their community to help get them back on their feet.

The money comes from the INB Benefit for the Businesses Affected by the Adams Family Fire fund, which was was established the morning after the incident. Officials said 100% of the INB funds will go to impacted businesses and individuals who resided near the site of the fire on Adams Street.

Officials with Downtown Springfield Inc. said a total of 12 affected residents, seven businesses, and one nonprofit were given money after a volunteer committee reviewed their applications.

A portion of the fund is made possible through community donations, which will still be accepted through July 26. To give, visit the GoFundMe page or any INB branch/drive-thru.

Each impacted resident received a $500 stipend. Here are the entities that also received various amounts of funding, totaling $9,750:

• Cafe Moxo
• Vegas Line LLC
• Electric Quill
• Cat’s Pyjamas Cafe
• Daisy Jane’s
• The Wakery
• Itty Bitty Fashion Trunk
• Diamond in the Rough Outreach Inc

At the time of the fire, nonprofit Diamond in the Rough Outreach was collecting school supplies for children at Compass 4 Kids and St. Patrick’s Catholic School. These materials were destroyed by smoke and water damage. DSI, Conn’s Hospitality, and the Kidzeum are now helping replenish the items through a school supply drive on Tuesday.

Bookbags, notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, small staplers, and glue will all be accepted at the drive. They can be dropped off at the Kidzeum and all Conn’s Hospitality Group properties — including Obed & Isaac’s, 7th St. Cidery, the Inn at 835, Wm. Van’s Cafe, and Trish & Mary’s.

$15,750 was distributed in this first round of funding. More will be given in August. Downtown Springfield Inc. said those who have already applied but did not receive funding are still in consideration.

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