A devastating fire on February 7, 2024, destroyed nearly the entire modular home of Danijela Mladenović in Park Šuma Zagorič, Montenegro. The single mother, who was renting the home with her three daughters, is now relying on the support of her community and local institutions to help her through this challenging time.
Mladenović expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of assistance from neighbors, colleagues, and the families of her daughters’ classmates. She stated that the city of Podgorica has reached out to offer financial support. “I was informed by the Social Welfare Secretariat that while they currently do not have any available city apartments to provide, they will assist me financially with €600,” Mladenović told the media.
In addition to the financial support from the city, Mladenović has received offers from generous individuals and organizations. “Many people have contacted me to help. Some have already deposited money into my bank account,” she said, visibly moved. Her former employers and even her current workplace have shown willingness to provide financial aid, as have the schools where her daughters are enrolled.
Despite the overwhelming support, Mladenović has been unable to return to work this week due to the emotional toll of the tragedy. “I am not yet ready to work, and neither is my oldest daughter, who is in the fourth grade of high school,” she explained. Since losing their home, the family has temporarily relocated to an apartment offered by a friend.
The fire broke out while Mladenović was at work, leaving her two daughters inside the home and her youngest outside. Emergency services responded swiftly, but the fire caused substantial damage, engulfing the living room, a significant portion of the kitchen, and affecting the hallway and part of the bathroom. Thanks to the quick thinking of Mladenović’s oldest daughter and assistance from neighbors, the family avoided serious harm.
The Social Welfare Secretariat confirmed that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire. They stated that they will provide one-time financial assistance to Mladenović and her children and are considering additional support measures for the homeowner, in accordance with existing regulations.
Mladenović, employed at a local retail chain, is facing a challenging road ahead. Those wishing to support Mladenović and her family can make donations to her bank account at Montenegro Commercial Bank, account number 510000000200189125.
As the community rallies around Mladenović, her story highlights not only the fragility of family stability in the face of disaster but also the resilience and kindness that can emerge in times of need.
