Community rallies to help Bartlett Center after failed fire and safety tests

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Following the Bartlett Center's failed fire and safety tests, facility leaders are calling on the community to assist with cleanup efforts.

The community showed up over the weekend, with about 40 individuals dropping by Saturday morning to help deep clean the building.

Efforts included getting rid of trash, cleaning out rooms, scrubbing the kitchen, and doing whatever was needed.

The best-case scenario for the center is that they finish the cleanup, pass re-inspection, and the YMCA returns, allowing the children, families, and staff to remain in the building they call home.

"We actually got a lot done today that I didn't expect because, I'm telling you, we had an outpouring," said Angie Cruse, program director for childcare at the Bartlett Center. "The community came in, and they were just getting things in and out, and they did a lot. We got a lot done today."

Cleanup efforts will resume Sunday from about 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and finishing up will continue until Monday from about 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

If you would like to help assist, you can show up at the Bartlett Center at any of those times.