In response to the March 12 apartment fire at Reed Manor, United Way of South Central Michigan has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to support residents and families affected by the fire. This effort is being coordinated in collaboration with MHT Housing Inc., to help connect displaced residents with immediate support and provide the community with a centralized way to help.
Support for Residents and Families
The Reed Manor fire displaced 69 families and impacted many residents who are now navigating the loss of housing, personal belongings, and stability.
Community partners are working together to support residents through recovery efforts, including donation collection, resource coordination, and direct assistance.
How the Community Can Help
United Way of South Central Michigan is accepting both financial donations and new, unopened supplies to support affected residents.
Financial Donations
To make a financial contribution to support families affected by the Reed Manor fire, visit:
unitedforscmi.org/disaster-relief-fund
Funds raised will go toward current recovery efforts.
Donation Drop-Off Information
United Way of South Central Michigan will begin collecting needed items on Saturday, March 14.
Drop-off location:
United Way of South Central Michigan
536 N. Jackson St.
Jackson, MI
Drop-off hours:
Saturday, March 14 through Thursday, March 19: Noon to 4 p.m.
Friday, March 20: 9 a.m. to noon
Needed Items
Requested donations include:
Hygiene products
Paper products
Moving supplies
Cleaning supplies
Household basics
First-aid supplies
Pet supplies
Please note: Food, clothing, and furniture cannot be accepted at this time.
For a full list of requested items, visit: https://unitedforscmi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Jackson-Fire-DRF-Flyer-1.pdf
Coordinated Community Response
“The families affected by this fire lost so much in an instant,” said Bethany Stutzman, Senior Director of Community Impact. “We are grateful for the many partners stepping up so quickly to provide critical support. Together, we’re making sure these families won’t face recovery alone.”
United Way of South Central Michigan created its Disaster Relief Fund to respond quickly to emergencies and help meet urgent community needs. The organization works closely with local partners to identify needs and deploy resources where they can have the greatest impact.
Stay Connected
The City of Jackson is continuing to work with partners to share available recovery resources and support information.
Residents and community members seeking additional information may also visit: unitedforscmi.org/disaster-relief-fund
To read the full press release, visit: https://www.cityofjackson.org/DocumentCenter/View/14397/NEWS-RELEASE-United-Way-Joins-Effort-to-Support-Families-Impacted-by-Apartment-Fire-pdf