Donations were pouring in Sunday at the Doles Recreation Center in Mount Vernon following Sunday morning's five-alarm fire at 30 Cottage Ave.

Anthony Caceres and his family lost everything they owned.

"I just brought my family from the Dominican Republic four months ago. It was tough for me to move in and buy all new stuff, brand new, and we lost everything in one second," he said.

Mount Vernon residents dropped off carloads and boxloads of clothing, shoes and personal items in an effort to help those who have suffered terrible losses just before Thanksgiving.

"We're all part of the same community. The fire happened less than a block away from my home. When one is in trouble, we have to help each other," said resident Sandra Crews.

Volunteers also offered their time to help those who have been displaced get back on their feet. Brenda Gist pitched in by helping to sort through the growing pile of clothing, items for men, women and children.

"The village is coming through and I'm very proud of Mount Vernon right now, very proud," she said.

Displaced fire victims will be temporarily housed at Holmes Elementary School until the Red Cross can find them a permanent place to live.