St. Paul pharmacy steps up to help residents displaced by Mac-Groveland apartment fire

The scent of freshly brewed coffee and the quiet hum of a pharmacy are comforting constants in any neighborhood. But at St. Paul Corner Drug in the Mac-Groveland neighborhood, those familiar comforts took on a new significance this week, as the family behind the business opened their doors to residents displaced by a devastating apartment fire. The blaze, which destroyed Randolph Terrace Apartments on Monday morning, has left dozens of families reeling, and the pharmacy’s response embodies the spirit of community that Minnesotans cherish—a willingness to offer practical support in times of profound loss.

The fire, which led to the building's demolition after the roof collapsed, impacted families like that of Dan Chulla, his wife Vang, and their 15-month-old daughter Azula, who had lived in the apartment complex for six years. Investigators have yet to determine the precise cause of the fire, though Mr. Chulla reported observing a possible origin point near a light fixture in a closet, with the fire spreading into the attic. FOX 9 reported that residents evacuated from neighboring buildings have since returned home, while those directly impacted are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Several GoFundMe campaigns have been set up to assist the displaced residents, including those for Maddy and Colin, Corrie, Matt, and Ava, Charlie, Alex and Gizmo, Katie, Maia Larson, Sophia and her cats, and the Chulla family. Help Maddy & Colin Rebuild, Help Corrie, Matt, and Ava Rebuild are among the campaigns seeking to provide financial assistance.

The Hoeschen family, owners of St. Paul Corner Drug, understood the immediate needs of these displaced residents. They opened the pharmacy’s doors, offering essential supplies free of charge, alongside gift cards and cash donations gathered from the community. “We just keep finding ways that we can fill a need here, and we think a pharmacy can and should do that when it can,” said Registered Nurse and Creative Director Hildie Hoeschen. This act of generosity is deeply rooted in the family’s own experience with loss.

A Family's Understanding

Twenty-one years ago, the Hoeschen family suffered a similar tragedy: a devastating house fire destroyed their home on Osceola Avenue during the Fourth of July weekend in 2005. Hildie Hoeschen was just ten years old at the time. “This hits especially close to home for our family,” she explained. “We were immediately surrounded by community.” The memory of that kindness, the tangible support offered by neighbors and friends, has shaped their commitment to helping others in need, creating a cycle of generosity that strengthens the fabric of the community.

The outpouring of support from the community at St. Paul Corner Drug highlights the importance of strong neighborhoods, where neighbors look out for one another in times of crisis. “It just feels like the least we can do, to do that for the people who are in the same position as we were,” Hildie Hoeschen stated. The loss of a home is more than just the loss of possessions; it represents the disruption of family routines, the severing of connections to a place of comfort and security, and the profound emotional toll of starting over.

Community Reaction

Brenna Kjellberg, a resident displaced by the fire, expressed profound gratitude for the pharmacy’s generosity. “Literally lost everything but my dog. So I have nothing,” she said, highlighting the stark reality faced by many of the victims. “So for people to show up like this and offer what they can is like the most incredible thing ever.” The sentiment echoed throughout the community, as evidenced by the numerous GoFundMe campaigns established to assist those affected by the fire. Dan Chulla, reflecting on his family's loss, emphasized the importance of human connection. “I'm so happy we have each other,” he said, acknowledging the strength found in family unity amidst such a devastating event. While he hopes to recover his wife's wedding ring from the rubble, he recognizes that the memories and love they share are irreplaceable.

The Chulla Family's Story

Dan Chulla and his wife Vang had lived at Randolph Terrace Apartments for the last six years, welcoming their daughter Azula, 15 months ago. He described the loss as more than just material possessions, but a loss of the home where they built their best years and got married. “It's a devastating feeling just driving through the neighborhood,” said Chulla, expressing the emotional toll of the event. He believes he saw where at least part of the fire started, around a light fixture in a closet, although investigators have not yet pinpointed the exact cause.

Financial Assistance and Resources

The immediate aftermath of a disaster like this is often characterized by a scramble for basic necessities. Beyond the pharmacy’s generosity, numerous organizations are mobilizing to provide assistance. The American Red Cross offers disaster relief services, including temporary shelter, food, and emotional support. Minneapolis Red Cross is actively involved in supporting the displaced families. The Salvation Army also provides disaster relief and assistance with finding permanent housing and other essential services. Salvation Army Minnesota Division is a valuable resource for those seeking long-term support.

Katherine's Take

Witnessing the response to this fire reminds us of the fundamental human need for connection and support. The Hoeschen family’s actions are a powerful testament to the enduring values of compassion and generosity, demonstrating that even in the face of personal tragedy, we have a responsibility to care for our neighbors. The loss of a home is a deeply disruptive event, particularly for young children like Azula Chulla. The stability of a loving family and a secure home environment are essential for a child's development, and the disruption caused by this fire will undoubtedly have lasting effects. It’s a sobering reminder of the importance of strong marriages and intact families – the bedrock upon which communities are built. While material possessions can be replaced, the emotional scars of such an event can linger, underscoring the need for ongoing support and counseling services for those affected.

What remains to be seen is how quickly these families can rebuild their lives and find a sense of normalcy. The outpouring of financial support through GoFundMe campaigns is a testament to the community’s generosity, but the long-term challenges of securing affordable housing and navigating the complexities of insurance claims will undoubtedly be significant. It is crucial that we continue to offer practical assistance and emotional support to these families as they embark on this difficult journey.

What's Next

The investigation into the cause of the fire continues, and while Mr. Chulla’s observations may provide some clues, a definitive determination remains elusive. In the meantime, the focus is on providing immediate relief to the displaced residents and helping them secure temporary and permanent housing. The St. Paul City Council and local community organizations are working to identify available resources and coordinate assistance efforts. The City of St. Paul website provides information on disaster relief programs and resources for those affected by the fire. The St. Paul Mac-Groveland Neighborhood Association is also a resource for residents. St. Paul Mac-Groveland Neighborhood Association.

Beyond the immediate crisis, the fire has raised important questions about fire safety regulations and building codes in the Mac-Groveland neighborhood. A review of these regulations may be necessary to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The resilience of the St. Paul community, however, shines through the ashes, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, hope and compassion can prevail.

The outpouring of support from St. Paul Corner Drug and the wider community serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of neighborly kindness and the enduring strength of the American spirit—a spirit rooted in faith, family, and a commitment to helping those in need. As these families begin the long process of rebuilding, let us continue to offer our support and prayers, ensuring that they feel surrounded by the love and compassion that defines our community.