The call of duty for Shelby Township police and fire has gone beyond the business of life saving, they are now in the rebuilding business.

On Dec. 1, members of the Shelby fire, police and several township employees helped the nearly 90 senior citizens whose lives were ravaged by a fire that tore through the Shelby Manor Senior Community center last month, move their belongings to their temporary home or to storage.

The residents were left homeless after a fire ripped through the Shelby Manor Senior Community on Schoenherr Road Nov. 17, leaving behind smoke and water damage. No serious injuries were reported, but complex B has been deemed uninhabitable.

Firefighters rescued several residents from their balconies, and several police officers entered the burning building and pulled residents out.

In addition, the Shelby Township Police Department is collecting donations for the seniors. More than a dozen seniors lost everything they owned in the fire and 28 residents are in need of financial help, according to the fire department.

Donations can be sent to Shelby Township Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #143, 52530 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, MI.  48316.  Be sure write on the envelope and/or check “Senior Assistance.”