Help Jisook From Total Loss After Devastating Fire

Kevin B is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Jisook Kim.

Donation protected

Hi, my name is Jisook Kim.

With my big hope, I just moved in to a new place, Hudson Terrace apartment in Fort Lee, NJ, June 1, 2021. I used to have roommates, but I always wanted to have my own place for a better living. I have been working so hard and saved some money for my rental apartment. I was thrilled by the place, finally having the desired result from all my efforts for years.

This was my FIRST apartment just for myself...

On Saturday, June 5, 2021, at approximately 3:20PM the fire started from one unit on the second floor. People said the unit was empty when the fire started. (I was living on the third floor). I just got home around 2PM and I was organizing all my stuff since I just moved in with some new furnitures all over the place. All of a sudden, the fire alarm set off. Everybody was trying to escape from the building at once.

I barely escaped with my life... my cellphone and purse on my person.

The wind blew harshly in high heat. Due to very low water pressure, the firefighters couldn't use the nearest hydrant. The fire was quickly spreading. They had to use the fire hose from 4 blocks away. Thus, the fire extended to the upper floors and eventually consumed the entire building.

Also, the apartment (38 units) was so old, built before 1950s, with no sprinklers, made of wood, unfortunately. You could see the burning and smell the smoke from miles away. The fire continued until Sunday morning.

I can’t believe this just happened only a few days after I moved in...

The worst thing about my situation is that I don’t have a rental insurance. I was planning to apply for the insurance, but I didn’t have a chance due to the rushed move. Who knew this was going to happen...?

There is NO WAY for me to get any financial compensation due to no rental insurance… My landlord said that he can't do anything for me and I can’t get any benefits of insurance for this loss.

I lost everything. I lost my home, ALL my possessions, all electronic devices, new furnitures, new home appliances, jewelries, all my valuables, memories…

Currently, nobody can get access inside the building due to safety issue.
The police are doing an investigation, and it will take a few weeks for the final report.

I love my life, my work, and people. I really don’t want anybody to experience what happened to me.

I have been working hard nonstop for a better future.
I thought I finally found my own nest, but instead I lost everything in one day.

Anything you can give to show support will help me live with hope for the future and positivity. :)

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!!! Bless you.

Best,
Jisook