As Londoners open their hearts and their wallets to help those affected by last week's explosion in Old East Village, the city is reminding people to double check that they're donating to a reputable agency.
"Although we appreciate the outpouring of support from our community, the City of London, including the London Fire Department and the London Professional Fire Fighters Association is not engaged in, partnering or doing any crowdfunding for injured firefighters and their families," the city said in a statement issued Monday.
Residents are advised to "do some due diligence" before making donations.
To date, no fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns related to last Wednesday's explosion on Woodman Avenue have been brought to the city's attention.
Seven people were taken to hospital, three homes demolished and another five homes deemed unsafe for reentry following a car crash that severed a gas line leading to the massive blast in the usually quiet neighbourhood Wednesday night.
450 Woodman was destroyed in the initial explosion, while 448 Woodman and 452 Woodman were torn down by crews over the weekend.
Residents of those homes have lost all of their possessions.
A firefighter who was injured in the blast remained in hospital in serious but stable condition as of Saturday.
In the wake of the explosion, multiple businesses and community members began collecting and donating financial donations and household items for those affected.
The Libro Credit Union working with the Old East Village Community Association launched a relief fund. Donations are being accepted at all branches, with the credit union kicking in its own $10,000 donation. That donation was quickly matched by the Western Fair District.
Anderson Ales and Fire Roasted Coffee are collecting food, toiletries, clothing, gift cards and pet food to help those affected.
A picnic in support of Old East Village was held Sunday at Boyle Park. It was attended by more than 400 people. The Aeolian Hall is holding a benefit concert on Tuesday to raise money. Admission is by donation.
Several GoFundMe campaigns have also been established including the Woodman Fire - Family Fund.
