SerpApi.Org
A Dutchess County massage therapist who lost her business when a devastating Fourth of July fire destroyed the building housing her studio is now receiving an outpouring of community support as she begins the rebuilding process.
Pawling Yoga & Wellness, located at 26 East Main St., was destroyed when a massive fire leveled the building on July 4, also destroying a CVS location.
The blaze broke out at around 8:10 p.m. on Saturday after severe storms swept through Dutchess County, igniting what Pawling Fire Chief Everett White described as one of the largest fires the department has ever battled.
According to White, firefighters arrived to find flames on the southeast side of the building and quickly called for a second alarm as the fire intensified. Despite the efforts of Pawling firefighters and numerous mutual aid departments from Dutchess, Putnam, and Litchfield counties in Connecticut, heavy fire eventually overtook the structure.
Firefighters were forced off the roof and switched to a defensive operation before the building ultimately collapsed.
Now, in the days since the devastating loss, organizer Emma Daniels has started a GoFundMe page to collect donations for Alma Pink, who teaches yoga at the studio, which was founded by Gabrielle Semel.
According to Daniels, Pink lost her entire workspace, including all of her equipment and supplies. She has paused classes as she searches for a new location.
"Alma has always been there for her clients, offering a gentle, soothing, and restorative touch that makes a real difference in people’s lives," Daniels wrote on the page, adding, "Now, Alma needs our help to rebuild her studio and replace the equipment she lost so she can get back on her feet and continue her healing work."
As of Wednesday, July 8, the campaign had raised $2,815 toward its $11,000 goal. Those interested in donating can click here to do so.
"Your support will help Alma recover from this devastating loss and restore her ability to help others. Thank you for coming together to support Alma during this difficult time," Daniels wrote.
As for the destroyed Pawling CVS locale, the company has since confirmed its Pawling store and pharmacy will remain closed indefinitely while the company works to establish a temporary pharmacy in the village.
For now, pharmacy calls are being routed to the company's Dover Plains location. Customers needing prescription assistance can call 845-877-6372 or visit any nearby CVS Pharmacy. CVS also said it is waiving home delivery fees for eligible prescriptions while it works to establish a temporary pharmacy in the village.
Editor's Note: This article originally referred to Alma Pink as the owner of Pawling Yoga & Wellness, which was inaccurate. A correction has been made for accuracy.
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