Free Hotel Stay Expiring for Local Fire Victims

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Hectic and surreal are just a few words Applewood Knoll residents are using to describe what it’s been like since the 20 unit complex went up in flames.

Duluth fire officials say the spark was started by improper disposal of smoking materials.

Some families who are now homeless have been living at the Econo Lodge for free.

This weekend they told FOX 21 that that is coming to an end.

Monday is the last day they can stay at the local hotel.

“We all knew it was gonna come at some point but we didn’t expect it to be this coming Monday,” Applewood Knoll resident Justice Niemi said. “Especially since we all found out on Friday, Saturdays and Sundays you can’t really do much. Businesses aren’t really open to call people to get into places or anything. So that parts a little nerve wrecking.”

This weekend benefits kicked off at Strikers Bar in Superior and the Red Herring Lounge in Duluth.

All proceeds from silent auctions, raffle and door prizes, food and beverage sales will go to the residents to help them replace some of the things they lost.

“Clothes, stuff that my kid needs,” Applewood Knoll resident Katie Anderson said. “I’m gonna get photo albums back up again, get his baby stuff going. It will get back together again.”

“I’m a member of this community and I feel like the community needs to come together in times like this to help people out,” Red Herring Lounge owner Bob Monahan said.

Benefit organizers tell FOX 21 so far they have taken in more than $2,500 dollars.