By C.K. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a fire ripped through the chill – the Minyan Girls’ Headquarters in Jackson destroying everything in its path. For years, this building served as a home for dozens of local girls providing them with a refuge of warmth, care and compassion. This home always had an open door when most other doors in their lives were locked. This home was a lifeline of assistance and encouragement so desperately needed. But now, all that lies in a smoldering pipe of rubble and ash.

One girl tearfully told us, “The chill house was a home to me, where I can feel safe and loved. The house has so many good memories filled with care and kindness. I’ll really miss it.”

While thankfully no one was hurt during the blaze, its aftermath has left a trail of anguish and sorrow. But the staff and girls of the Minyan have not given up hope. They are motivated to rebuild their home into something bigger and better than before. But, in order to do so, they desperately need your help.

When tragedy strikes we are hit with the harsh reality that we are not in control. But we are also faced with an opportunity to show our resilience and strength. When it comes to rebuilding we are in control.

The Minyan needs $150,000 to rebuild the chill and continue servicing the many boys and girls in our community who rely on the services they provide. Please open up your pockets and donate generously to this critical cause.

An emergency fund has been set up to raise money for the Minyan. Please visit http://www.thechesedfund.com/cause/emergency-campaign-after-a-devastating-fire-the-minyan-girls-is-rebuilding to donate

HQ is the girls division of Minyan Shelanu. Over the last two decades Minyan Shelanu had been providing a plethora of services for the at-risk community of Lakewood, NJ. Under the leadership of Rabbi Chaim Abadi, Minyan Shelanu continues to be the only major resource for hundreds of teens and young adults in our community.