In the aftermath of a fire which severely damaged the Access Center’s two-story headquarters in Hillcrest on May 15, the organization, which serves San Diego’s disabled community, has a temporary office set up at The Center, which is located two blocks from its current location.

The Access Center is in need of emergency relief to help reopen their administrative offices. The fire destroyed the wheelchair-repair shop located on the first floor, and caused severe smoke and water damage to the administrative offices on the second level. Much of the organization’s furniture, office supplies, carpeting and equipment were ruined.

“I’m hopeful that businesses or individuals in our community can come through with some emergency assistance to help the Access Center reopen its doors on University Avenue,” said Councilmember Toni Atkins, who visited the fire site on May 15, shortly after the fire occurred. “Right now, their immediate needs are for office furniture, including desks, chairs and filing cabinets, as well as equipment like computers, phones, fax machines and copiers, along with all the general office supplies that an office needs to function. They also need power and hand tools to help get a wheelchair-repair center operable. And, of course, financial donations will help immensely.”

Incoming phone lines have been provided through The Center’s Community Resource Center. The organizations are working to establish special hours for Access Center clients at The Center’s David Bohnett Cyber Center.

“This is a wonderful example of critically important community service organizations in District 3 working together,” said Atkins. “I am grateful to The Center for coming to the aid of the Access Center so quickly after the fire occurred and for offering them a safe and welcoming place. Because of The Center’s prompt response, the Access Center can continue to provide the best possible service to those who need it, even in the midst of this difficult situation.”

Financial donations can be made payable to “Access Center Disaster Relief Fund” and mailed to 1295 University Ave., Suite 10, San Diego, CA 92103. For more information on how to make donations of supplies, furniture, equipment or tools, contact Bill Stothers at (619) 232-2727 ext. 9.

- Press release