One Year After a Devastating Fire, Straight and Narrow Perseveres On

On August 24, 2019, Catholic Charities, Straight and Narrow experienced 5-Alarm Fire. A year later, thanks to help from the community, the agency continues to provide a high level of support for those in recovery.

Our largest agency is Straight and Narrow, the most expansive nonprofit drug and alcohol treatment center in the entire country.  Straight and Narrow provides a full continuum of services for women and men in recovery, helping over 1,200 people each day.

On August 24, 2019 Straight and Narrow experienced a devastating fire.  Our 410 building was engulfed in flames.   A small isolated blaze quickly turned into a five-alarm fire, sending plumes of black smoke into the air. 

Thankfully, no one was hurt.  200 individuals from Straight and Narrow were evacuated and displaced, all of them returning to treatment the following day. 
Straight and Narrow’s Halfway House was completely destroyed, as was additional office space, counseling rooms and “the warehouse” where donated clothing, furniture, hygiene supplies, and other items given to individuals entering in-patient treatment.

The men who were receiving assistance at Straight and Narrow’s Halfway House continued to received treatment at an alternate location of Catholic Charities in Passaic.  Thankfully, the neighboring building, Straight and Narrow’s Monsignor Mark Giordani Center was not damaged. This building houses residential treatment for men and women and Straight and Narrow’s detox hospital unit. 
Straight and Narrow’s leadership team continues to give thanks to the staff and first responders who saved lives on that day one year ago. 

“This catastrophe could have easily become a tragedy if not for the brave response from the fire department and first responders.  We are so grateful to all who helped save lives on that day. We also continue to thank our working Straight and Narrow employees, who, when the alarm sounded, acted diligently and professionally,” said Scott Milliken Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson’s CEO.

In one year, Catholic Charities, Straight and Narrow has had to cope with both the debilitating fire at 410 and the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to support those facing the crisis of addiction. 

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“During the COVID-19 pandemic, Straight and Narrow has taken various health and safety measures to ensure continued operations of our treatment programs. With the provision of on-site testing, our admissions have increased.  We have reviewed our infection control protocols, enhanced cleaning services, obtained much needed PPE, and implemented screening procedures for both clients and staff.  The safety of our community remains are utmost priority.  With COVID being in the forefront of the media, the focus has shifted away from the opioid epidemic.  The reality is that we are currently faced with two epidemics to battle.  Many individuals are, now more than ever, seeking treatment for substance use and mental health problems due to triggers as a result of COVID-19.  Straight & Narrow remains committed to serve those most in need, we are here for support, and will continue to answer the call of community at large,” said Angela Nikolovski Executive Director of Straight and Narrow.  

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Nurses from Straight and Narrow's Monsignor Wall Center have helped the organization persevere on through the COVID-19 Pandemic. 

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Through a fire, displacement, and pandemic, Straight and Narrow has persevered on and is thankful to the community for their continued support.  2 weeks ago, The Bishop of the Diocese of Paterson Kevin Sweeney presented a check for over $319,000 to Straight and Narrow for rebuilding efforts. This was 10 percent of the 2019 Bishop Annual Appeal funds and over and above the usual $1 million-plus that is allocated annually from the Appeal to assist Catholic Charities. This is in addition to $250,000 in direct donations to Catholic Charities, Straight and Narrow.   

“Support from the community has been incredible. Contributions and acts of kindness for those impacted by this fire began a year ago and haven’t stopped.   Local service organizations went above and beyond in assisting with donations of clothing and needed items for the individuals impacted.  Bishop Emeritus Serratelli was on the scene the day of the fire and helped raise needed funds through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal.  We thank Bishop Sweeney for his support and the support of the Diocesan faithful.  Individuals and organizations from around the country have given to assist Straight and Narrow, showing their love and solidarity for individuals in recovery.  We are truly blessed,” said Chris Brancato, Catholic Charities Development Director.

One year later, Straight and Narrow has begun to engage with an architect to rebuild this program, has scheduled departmental focus groups to develop their vision for the future, and have visited and consulted with other treatment organizations to come up with a plan to best utilize their future space.

To donate to Straight and Narrow’s rebuilding efforts please visit www.ccpaterson.org/snfire .

To donate to Catholic Charities COVID-19 Relief Fund, please visit www.ccpaterson.org/relief .

“A devastating fire. A global pandemic. The dramatic increase in need for our services.  Whatever the crisis is, Catholic Charities will be there to help those most in need.  We are looking forward to rebuilding Straight and Narrow’s 410 building to better serve those in recovery for years to come,” Mr. Milliken added.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction please email [email protected] or call Straight and Narrow’s admissions office at (973) 345-6000  ext. 6289.

Straight and Narrow Kitchen Staff assist with providing help and creating hope for over 1,200 people in need each day.   The organization has persevered on through a devastating fire and COVID-19 in the past year.