To the Editor:

On behalf of the Princeton Housing Authority (PHA) Board of Commissioners, staff, and the tenants affected by the recent fire incident at Redding Circle Family, I want to express my sincerest gratitude to all of the people and agencies who responded and lent their invaluable support during this challenging time.

The prompt response and exceptional service provided by Princeton Fire Department, Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad, Princeton Plasma Physics Lab (Mercer County Station 66), Plainsboro Fire Department, Hamilton Fire Department, Kingston Fire Department, and West Windsor Emergency Services were instrumental in extinguishing the fire swiftly and limiting further damage. I deeply appreciate the bravery and dedication demonstrated by all of the first responders in ensuring the safety of our residents and the preservation of their homes as well as the follow up with tenants to ensure they comply with fire safety strategies and protocols moving forward.

Princeton Human Services played a crucial role in coordinating efforts with the Red Cross and Princeton Housing Authority staff, facilitating seamless assistance for displaced tenants. Their collaboration ensured that affected individuals received the support they needed during this period of upheaval.

I am also grateful to the Princeton Building and Construction subcode officials for their expertise and support. Their insights were invaluable in helping navigate the restoration process and ensuring the prompt return of tenants to safe and habitable living spaces.

The generosity of the American Red Cross in providing gift cards for displaced tenants to purchase clothing and other necessities has been a source of immense relief and comfort for those affected. Their assistance has eased the burden on the impacted residents and offered them a lifeline during this challenging time of displacement and uncertainty.

Additionally, the support extended by Send Hunger Packing Princeton (SHUPP) through gift cards to replace lost food due to the temporary disruption in electricity was deeply appreciated by our tenants. SHUPP’s compassionate and speedy response helped address any immediate concerns of hunger and ensured that our tenants have access to food resources.

Lastly, I want to commend the dedication and hard work of the PHA staff who tirelessly coordinated the cleanup and repair efforts, demonstrating their commitment to restoring normalcy for our residents. Their resilience and compassion have been the cornerstone of the response efforts, and I am profoundly grateful for their steadfast support throughout this ordeal. Due to the PHA staff’s willingness to go above and beyond their workday and workweek, all five families impacted by the fire have been able to return to their homes. The family living in the unit where the fire occurred has been relocated to a newly renovated unit, while we await the results of the fire investigation report. 

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who helped for their selfless contributions and unwavering commitment to aiding the PHA community during this challenging time. Their kindness and generosity have made a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the fire, and I am immensely grateful for their support.

Felicia A. Spitz
Chair, Princeton Housing Authority
Spruce Circle