AUSTINTOWN  The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley is appealing for monetary donations this Giving Tuesday to support residents displaced by the recent explosion at the Phoenix House apartments.

The organization launched a specific campaign to assist the 141 residents who were evacuated following the Nov. 22 blast. United Way officials emphasized that 100 percent of the contributions will go directly to the victims, with no administrative fees deducted from the fund.

According to the agency, the donations will provide emergency financial assistance, food, clothing, and temporary housing support. The funds are also intended to help residents replace medications and other necessities lost during the evacuation.

The explosion, which occurred at the complex near North Meridian Road and Interstate 680, resulted in one severe injury and multiple minor injuries. While the official cause remains under investigation, fire officials have stated the blast patterns are consistent with a natural gas explosion.

Austintown Township officials noted last week that the building could remain uninhabitable for several months or more than a year. The complex primarily houses seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents.

Displaced tenants are currently staying in hotels and assisted living facilities, with costs covered by a coalition of local nonprofits, including the United Way, Catholic Charities, the American Red Cross, and Direction Home.

As of Tuesday morning, the campaign had raised approximately $8,300 toward a $50,000 goal.

Residents were briefly permitted to re-enter safe portions of the building last week to retrieve essential items, but access remains restricted due to safety concerns.

Donors can contribute to the "Austintown Explosion Help" fund through the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley website. Donations can also be mailed to the organization’s office at 255 Watt St. in Youngstown.