Situation

Overnight, A devastating fire broke out at our masjid and school campus. Members who were closely connected to the center were alerted immediately and arrived on site to support emergency crews. Firefighters battled the blaze for more than four hours, working through freezing temperatures, frozen equipment, and extreme exhaustion. Six city fire departments responded to contain the fire, but despite their efforts, the roof collapsed and the building suffered complete structural loss. The preliminary report indicates a total loss of the facility.

Media Coverage Reporting the Masjid Fire
 

Impact on Our Community

This building was home to Baitul Hikmah Academy, where more than 200 students and staff attended school daily. With the destruction of the building, in-person learning has been suspended. The school has now shifted to an online format until a suitable temporary location can be secured. Families, teachers, and students are working to adapt quickly, but this sudden transition has created uncertainty and hardship.

The masjid, Masjid Hamza, served as a central gathering place for our community. Every Friday, over 200 worshippers attended Jum’ah prayer, and the masjid hosted daily prayers, classes, and community programs. The loss of the building means that our community no longer has a dedicated physical space for worship, education, and connection. We are now facing long-term displacement, and we will need to rebuild not just a structure, but a home for our community.

 

How Funds Will Be Used

Your donation will support our community during this difficult time and assist in the long-term effort to rebuild the masjid and school. This includes helping with relocation needs, temporary arrangements, restoration planning, construction, and any other essential expenses that may arise as we work to rebuild and restore our community services.

We will continue to provide updates as we learn more.