Assistance fund created for employees impacted by Salt Lake City fire

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Over 200 individuals are out of work, following the Monday fire that destroyed five businesses in downtown Salt Lake City. Downtown Alliance is fundraising to support those employees.

A fire in downtown Salt Lake City destroyed five businesses and temporarily closed several others on Monday evening. Fortunately, there were no fatalities and Salt Lake City Fire Department was able to fully evacuate all of the affected area. However, over 200 individuals worked at the five businesses that were destroyed and have since lost their jobs.

Nicole Harrison worked at the White Horse Bar for four years and was evacuated from the building shortly after the fire started. She told ABC4, “I’m really heartbroken. This place is not only my community and my home, but it was also my solace. I can’t even imagine where I’ll go next, honestly.”

Downtown Alliance Salt Lake City, a non-profit meant to foster community within downtown SLC, has created an employee assistance fund and says 100% of the donations will support the employees cover their living expenses following the fire.

Dee Brewer, the executive director of Downtown Alliance, said, “Downtown Salt Lake City has always been defined by resilience and its people. We know this community will rally together to help our neighbors get back on their feet and restore the vitality of this cherished block.”

Individuals can learn more about the employee assistance fund and donate here.

Mayor Mendenhall issues call to action

Mayor Erin Mendenhall also issued a call to action for residents, asking Salt Lake City to show up for the surviving businesses on Main Street. She said, “[They’re] going to be open tomorrow- they need people to show up. We need to come down and support Main Street.”

She also emphasized the economic importance of Main Street businesses, “These are locally owned businesses and locally owned building owners. Part of what makes Salt Lake City unique but it’s not mostly chain restaurants, so this money stays in our economy.”

Initially, the surviving businesses on Main Street were evacuated and closed while SLCFD fought the fire and the block lost power. However, many have since reopened.

For the five businesses that were total losses, Mayor Mendenhall says they will be working with the business owners and property owners to help rebuild. Currently, Salt Lake City is working to create an emergency loan fund with zero percent interest and will help fast track the inspection process.