A devastating fire at a large apartment complex in Carpentersville, Illinois, has left many residents without a home, forcing them to seek alternative accommodations.

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In response to the crisis, a significant outpouring of donations has been witnessed, aimed at assisting those who have lost everything in the blaze.

By Sunday, the last group of displaced individuals had vacated the temporary shelter set up for them. Many have found temporary refuge with family members or secured short-term stays in local hotels.

On the same day, volunteers were busy sorting through an overwhelming number of donations, including clothes and personal items, at the Carpentersville Public Works Department.

Due to the influx of contributions, a sign was posted requesting that donations be redirected to other locations.

“I am trying to help the people who need it. I talked to my god, and he said go to see. Go to see,” neighbor Elena Palomo said.

“I got some brand-new coats, and I wanted to give them to these people directly. I don’t want them to go to anybody. I want them for these people that lost everything,” Brian Gilly said.

Twenty-three families were displaced by the Saturday morning fire that firefighters said started somewhere on the first floor and extended up to the roof.

Now, the entire building is fenced off. Residents are unable to go inside to see if anything can be salvaged.

“The fire department was out there earlier with some residents. Since it’s boarded up it’s not safe right now. We are not allowing anyone else in there at this time,” Carpentersville Village President John Skillman said.

Even as those displaced have now found temporary places to stay, and their immediate emergency needs are being met, officials are calling on residents to redirect their generosity in the form of cash donations.

For those wanting to help the displaced find a new home, village officials recommend making that cash donation directly to the Red Cross and note that the money is to be used for the Carpentersville apartment fire relief.