In the early morning hours of August 21st, a fire broke out at an apartment complex in the Canal District of San Rafael. The fire began around 5:35 AM at 516 Canal Street, and by the time firefighters arrived, the 19-unit complex was fully engulfed. Thanks to the swift response from the San Rafael Fire Department and support from neighboring units throughout Marin County, the fire was brought under control within an hour. 

Several residents suffered burn injuries and were taken to the hospital. Approximately 50 residents of the complex have been displaced, and adjacent buildings were also evacuated due to damage. An evacuation center has been set up at the Albert J. Boro Community Center for the affected families. 

The City of San Rafael, County of Marin, and Canal Alliance are leading the immediate response efforts. In solidarity with our neighbors, the Marin Community Foundation has launched the Canal Residents Emergency Fund to direct donations to organizations directly providing urgent support. 100% of donations will be directed towards providing temporary shelter, clothing, food and other essential items. 

As with all emergencies, donors should be advised that while we focus on immediate needs of the displaced residents, the full extent of damage and the impact it has on people’s lives will not be immediately known. Recovery efforts will take time, and flexible funding will be needed throughout. 

For more information, please contact MCF at 415-464-2500. 

Do you have an existing donor fund with MCF?

If so, please click HERE to log in to the Giving Center and make your donation to the Canal Residents Emergency Fund of MCF.