We know many in our community are wondering how they can best respond to the needs of those affected by Thursday’s tragic explosion and fire at Medina Village apartments. We are coordinating with the Red Cross to ensure that needs are being met. Those who need help are encouraged to contact our St. Vincent de Paul Society at 330-764-8952 for assistance.

The St. Vincent de Paul Society is accepting financial contributions and gift cards to benefit the victims of this tragedy. Contributions to St. Vincent de Paul Society may be mailed or dropped off c/o St. Francis Xavier Parish, 606 E. Washington St., Medina, 44256. Please include the words “Medina Fire” on the memo line or elsewhere with the donation. SVDP has established an independent fund to steward those donations.

Clothing items are being collected at the United Church of Christ – Congregational, 217 E. Liberty St., Medina.

Those who died or were injured or displaced were remembered with prayer and candlelight during the 7 p.m. Mass on Thursday evening and 7:30 a.m. Mass on Friday morning at St. Francis Xavier Church. Please remember these people and their families in your prayers.