From mom and pop to national chains, local business line up to help put on Gabriel House fundraiser

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — Seeing the tragedy of the Sunday night Gabriel House fire in his community, Christopher Silvia, the owner of Christopher’s in Fall River, knew he had to do something to help.

Over just three days, Silvia has helped set up a fundraiser to help the victims and survivors of the fire.

The response and support, he said, has been surreal.

Silvia had to move the fundraiser to a bigger venue, saying that he was not expecting nearly as many restaurants and businesses to take part as the 47 that have already signed up.

Silvia said that businesses from as far away as Providence have stepped up to help.

Those businesses include national chains such as Chick-fil-A and Starbucks, and local businesses from throughout the area, including the Hamilton Diner in Seekonk, who are sending down fish and chips.

Their owner said it was an honor for them to get involved.

Seeing the Fall River community come together, Silvia said, meant a lot to him and showed the spirit of the city.

The fundraiser will be held at the St. John’s Athletic Club on Rodman Street and begins at 6 Friday night.