Fire at Nazarene Christian Academy’s Collis Building

On July 28, 2025, at approximately 2:00 a.m., a fire broke out at the Collis Building of Nazarene Christian Academy in New Bedford, MA. This smaller annex houses preschool through kindergarten classrooms. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and safety protocols remained effective throughout the incident. Fall River Reporter and wsar.com

Fall River Reporter: “New Bedford school looking for public’s help after early morning fire causes extensive damage”

Published July 28, this detailed report by Ken Paiva lays out the timeline and community response:

• The blaze broke out early morning, significantly damaging the Collis Building on Hathaway Road. Fall River Reporter

• A GoFundMe campaign was launched to support: rebuilding efforts, replacement of classroom equipment, securing temporary spaces, and covering costs beyond insurance limits. GoFundMe

• School leadership emphasized continuity: classes and church services continue uninterrupted, with adjusted drop-off and pick-up procedures. The community is asked to stay strong in faith as rebuilding proceeds. Fall River Reporter

WPRI 12: "Fire damages Nazarene Christian Academy in New Bedford"

This shorter coverage underscores the urgency of an ongoing investigation:

• Confirming the fire’s occurrence and damage to part of the school, it quotes Headmaster Jon Helm, who reassures parents about the safety protocols and operational continuity. WPRI

• The report highlights that an investigation is in progress to determine the fire’s cause.

South Coast Today "Fire damages Nazarene Christian Academy in New Bedford. How students will be affected."

This source provides critical detail on the structural location of the fire damage:

• The blaze significantly impacted the attic storage area of the Collis Building; contents stored there were damaged, and there was overflow to the lower levels. Standard Times

• Visual coverage shows a collapsed or scorched section of the upper roof. Standard Time

Standing Together, Building Forward

In the face of unexpected loss, the Nazarene Christian Academy community has responded with unwavering faith, resilience, and love. While the damage to the Collis Building is significant, our spirit remains strong—and our mission to provide Christ-centered education continues without pause.

As we begin the journey to rebuild, we invite you to be part of the restoration. Whether you're a member of our school family, church, a friend of the academy, or someone who simply believes in the power of Christian education, your support can make a lasting difference.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover critical needs not met by insurance—everything from classroom materials and structural repairs to temporary learning spaces and supplies for our youngest students.

💛 Click here to donate and learn more about the campaign.

With every prayer, every gift, and every act of kindness, we are reminded that God is faithful—and His people are generous. Thank you for standing with Nazarene Christian Academy as we rise from this fire stronger than before.

“All things work together for good to those who love Him.” — Romans 8:28