21 people in Cathlamet have been left unhoused after an early morning apartment fire yesterday.

The Cathlamet Fire Department says they were dispatched just before 2:15 A.M. to the 140 block of Columbia Street. Upon arrival, they found a 13-unit building with active flames coming through the roof. This led to multiple other agencies from around the region also responding.

Despite the size of the flames and the time of day, all residents were accounted for. 7 of them were evaluated at the scene, but they were not hospitalized.

The department did not say how long it took them to get the flames out. They did say the building is expected to be a total loss, however. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

Currently, several local businesses, nonprofits, and residents are helping the displaced residents. The Wahkiakum Department of Emergency Management put out a release saying that they are working to fill the needs of the displaced families. An emergency shelter has been set up at the Wahkiakum County Fairgrounds.

They are asking for volunteers to assist with shelter setup, meals, and shelter coordination. Those interested can check in at the fairground’s main entrance, located at 14 Fairgrounds Road in Skamokawa, Washington.

Those who would like to make a monetary donation can contact Bank of the Pacific and donate to the Cathlamet Apartment Donation Fund, or make a donation to the Zeffy fundraiser organized by WHEELhouse Cathlamet.