Visalia community supporting businesses impacted by fire

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- It's been a week since three businesses in downtown Visalia were left in ashes and debris from a fire that started in a trash bin.

A day many are still trying to process.

Saul Altamirano is the General Manager of Alejandra's Restaurant and says their staff is like family. Despite a rough week since flames ripped through their business, the overwhelming support from the community has inspired them to rebuild.

"Thank you to the community, supporters and our clients," he said.

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Altamirano says the building's owner is also in full support of their return.

Several fundraisers have been set up to help all three businesses affected.

A GoFundMe for Alejandra's Restaurant has raised $9,000 so far. Altamirano says that money will go to help their 29 employees who don't have a source of revenue right now.

A fundraiser by downtown Visalia has also raised about $4,200 dollars. That will go towards employees from all three businesses.

Décor to Adore has a GoFundMe as well. The couple who owned the store had just launched a few months ago and were not insured.

Mayor Steve Nelsen says a mural will soon come to life while plans are underway.

"I am already working with the muralist," he said. "I have permission to put a mural on the plywood. We are going to move that as quick as possible so we get a better look for downtown."