This page serves as a central hub for updates on Catholic Charities of New York’s response to the Belmont fire in the Bronx. Please check back regularly for the latest information on relief efforts and ways to support those affected. If you would like to support Catholic Charities’ response efforts, please click here.
Thu, April 23 – 10:54am
Catholic Charities of New York staff and parish partners remain on the ground at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, accompanying families as they begin to process the devastating losses caused by the fire.
Gonzalo Alvarado, Community and Parish Engagement Coordinator at Catholic Charities of New York, described the day as one rooted in presence and compassion. “We have the blessing and the grace to be here to serve and support,” he said. “It’s about showing Christ’s compassion to these families — walking with them in their suffering. Many have lost everything — their homes, their belongings, even their pets.”
He also reflected on a conversation with Tomasa, a parish volunteer, who spoke about the extraordinary response from the community. She shared how neighbors from across the parish — including Latino, Hispanic, and Italian families — have come together to support those affected, each contributing what they can.
“This is what’s great about this community, that everybody steps up and helps,” Tomasa said.
Thu, April 23 – 9:00am
The outpouring of support from the Belmont community has been immediate and deeply felt, with parishioners and neighbors coming together to assist families who lost everything in the fire. Volunteers, Fordham University students, and local partners have stepped forward in remarkable numbers, donating essential items such as toiletries, diapers, ready-to-eat food, clothing, and jackets, helping to sustain ongoing relief efforts.
At this time, the most urgent needs include toys and school supplies for children, as well as men’s socks and undergarments.
As response efforts continue, the focus will expand to longer-term needs, including housing support and trauma-informed care. Grief counselors are also being made available to help families begin to process the loss and disruption they have experienced.
Wed, April 22 – 5:58pm – Archbishop Hicks Message
“I know that Catholic Charities will be there to help,” said Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks, in a pre-recorded message played to those affected, parishioners, and relief workers on the scene at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. “My prayers are going out to you and everyone.”
Wed, April 22 – 4:18pm
Tom Dobbins Jr., Deputy Director of Public and Community Engagement at Catholic Charities of New York, has been on site since last night and throughout today, assisting with response efforts at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
“Parishes are at the heart of every community, and in moments like this, they are on the front lines of care and support. I’ve seen firsthand the strength and compassion of this community in action. We are incredibly thankful to Father Carlos and the parishioners for their leadership and generosity in responding so quickly to those in need,” Tom said.
“In moments like these, caring for both the immediate needs and the human spirit of our neighbors is essential, helping them find comfort and hope in the days ahead,” he added.
Wed, April 22 – 3:00pm
Catholic Charities of New York is mobilizing to support residents affected by a devastating five-alarm fire in the Belmont section of the Bronx that left two people dead, injured at least 13 others, and displaced dozens of families.
The fire broke out Tuesday afternoon in a five-story residential building on East 187th Street and quickly spread through multiple floors. According to fire officials, the blaze intensified rapidly, eventually reaching five alarms as hundreds of firefighters and emergency personnel worked to contain it. Among the injured were several firefighters, highlighting the dangerous conditions responders faced, including partial structural collapse.
More than 80 residents, including children, have been displaced, many losing all of their belongings.
J. Antonio Fernández, CEO of Catholic Charities of New York, visited the site yesterday on April 21, witnessing firsthand the extent of the damage and the emotional toll on residents.
“Families have lost everything, and many are now facing unimaginable uncertainty,” he said. “We stand with this community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Catholic Charities of New York has deployed teams to provide immediate and ongoing assistance to those impacted. Support efforts include legal services, direct aid to individuals and families, and coordination with local partners to ensure residents receive the help they need.
The organization is also working closely with Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, which has opened its doors to provide support and refuge for displaced residents.
Catholic Charities of New York expresses deep gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who risked their lives to contain the blaze and protect residents.
As recovery efforts continue, Catholic Charities of New York remains committed to accompanying the Belmont community in the days and weeks ahead.
