The Greater Naples (FL) YMCA is working to rebuild after a fire on Monday afternoon caused significant damage to the facility’s wellness center, gymnasium and roof.
Fire officials ruled that lightning caused the fire and estimated that damages could total $2 million, according to local news reports. People inside the building when the fire started were safely evacuated, but two firefighters sustained minor injuries. Both have since been treated and released.
According to a statement on the Y's Facebook page, staff worked through Monday night to develop a plan that would allow members to continue with their regular programs.
The Naples Y is still providing after-school care and tennis programs, but it has cancelled or relocated other programs, including group exercise classes. While the Naples Y repairs damaged areas, it is directing its members to work out free of charge at the Greater Marco Family Y in Marco Island, FL, the Bonita Springs (FL) Y and NCH Wellness Centers in Naples.
Rebuilding efforts are already underway. On Tuesday, the Y announced that the First National Bank of the Gulf Coast has created a relief fund to help the facility raise money.
"Not all was lost, our spirit remains strong and we will rebuild," the Y said in a Facebook post. "We will become a stronger Y by going through this challenge we face."