In Support of Displaced Residents & Artists
Rebuilding Community: Fire Relief for Displaced Residents & Artists
Every dollar raised supports our displaced neighbors to help them manage sudden financial strain and rebuild after this devastating loss.
Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Community,
In the early morning hours of October 19, a devastating fire broke out across the two buildings that Michael and I have owned, loved, and called home for over 20 years.
Amid the terror of that night, the most important outcome is that every person who was home made it out alive: 13 adults, 3 babies, and firefighters rescued all 9 pets. We are so thankful no life was lost.
This historic space has been a beating heart of art, life, and community since 2005. It is where we built Open Eye Theatre, where we opened the doors to the community space known as RESOURCE, and where a tight-knit family of neighbors has lived, created, and thrived together. Many of you have been there with us over the years, and we know it is a loss for you too.
The Reality of the Loss: It could have been so much worse, yet the devastation to our living spaces is profound:
Displacement and catastrophic damage: The fire completely incinerated RESOURCE (community space), and the pressurized smoke created such smoke and soot contamination that all residential apartments are uninhabitable. Tenants and their belongings are being painfully removed, including our storefront that served as Open Eye’s original studio, a rehearsal and performance space, and artist housing before it became our residence.
Open Eye sustained smoke damage, but fortunately, they will be able to reopen November 12. We are so thankful for that!
How Your Support Helps
We will rebuild, which will be a long process, but right now residents are facing overwhelming challenges to find temporary housing, replacing lost belongings, and facing relocation costs, as well as the immense emotional toll.
Donate if you can, share this fundraiser, or send words of encouragement; every gesture means the world to us.
Donate if you can, share this fundraiser, or send words of encouragement; every gesture means the world to us.
100% of the funds will go directly to support the 18 displaced tenants navigating this unexpected financial burden and heartbreak.
We will post updates and ask for volunteers when the time comes.
Thank you for holding our community in your thoughts and care.
Susan Haas and Michael Sommers
Updates
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- Created Oct 31, 2026
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Words of Support
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Megan O'Hara about 22 hours ago • with donation
Allen Christian 1 day ago • with donation
Danielson.amy 2 days ago • with donation
Norbergnikki 2 days ago • with donation
Andy and Sonja 3 days ago • with donation
Rachael Davies 3 days ago • with donation