Bethlehem, PA – May 19, 2025 – In the wake of the devastating fire at the Five10 Flats apartment complex on May 2, local entrepreneur Derek Wallen has partnered with Humanitarian Social Innovations (HSI) to launch a dedicated relief fund and host a charity event, supporting the residents and businesses affected by the tragedy.
The fire, which began on the rooftop of the apartment building at 501 E. Third Street, displaced 135 residents and caused significant damage to personal property. Several local retailers operating within the building were also impacted. The newly established relief fund will provide critical support for both displaced residents and affected small businesses as they begin the process of recovery.
The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce has joined in spreading awareness and encouraging support from its member network.
“We continue to be in awe of the way our community has rallied in the wake of the Five10 Flats fire,” said Tammy Wendling, Senior Vice President of Bethlehem Initiatives at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve received an overwhelming number of calls from Chamber Members asking how they can support both the displaced residents and the affected businesses. This upcoming event, along with the newly launched nonprofit Neighbors in Need, is a meaningful way to bring people together, and it’s a great example of how local leaders like Derek Wallen are stepping up to meet the moment. We’re proud to support these efforts and stand with our community.”
Derek Wallen, a Bethlehem-based business owner and the founder of Roasted, is widely known for his commitment to community-driven initiatives.
“I love our community. It supports me and my businesses, and I want to support it as well,” said Wallen. “We’re coming together to ensure our neighbors have the resources they need during this difficult time.”
Humanitarian Social Innovations, a Bethlehem-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will manage the fund. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law, with 100% of the funds going directly toward providing emergency housing, food, clothing, and other essential support for those affected. HSI has a strong track record of enabling grassroots efforts and empowering community responses.
How to Help
- Donate Online: hsifiscalsponsor.org/neighborsinneed
- Donate by Mail: Checks payable to “HSI” with “Five10 Flats” in the memo line can be sent to: Humanitarian Social Innovations, 301 Broadway, Suite 115, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Additionally, a community benefit event will be held on May 25, from 4–7 PM at Country Club Brewing (323 Pierce Street, Bethlehem). All are welcome to attend. Those interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or contributing to the event can reach out via email: neighborsinneedbethlehem@gmail.com or saeger2@gmail.com
About The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce: The mission of the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce is to advocate, preserve and advance business and community interests to further economic growth in the city of Bethlehem.
About the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce The mission of The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce is to improve the economy and quality of life in the Lehigh Valley Metropolitan Area. We accomplish this through business-to-business networking events and marketing products, affinity programs and exclusive, money saving member benefits, training programs, government affairs initiatives and public policy advocacy, and community development enterprises. With nearly 5,000 members who employ more than 200,000, the Chamber is the largest in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and in the top ten nationwide.
Information provided to TVL by:
Tammy Wendling
