Glacier State Apartments residents displaced by a June 17 fire may have to wait at least a couple of weeks before anyone is able to move back in.

About 38 people who are 62 and older were forced out of their homes at the low-income apartment complex on 600 Liberty St.

There were hopes that residents could start moving back on the north side of the building where damage was minimal, but Kim Jackson, area manager for Monfric Realty, said the building still requires professional cleaning for smoke and that will take time.

“We’re working on it as quickly as we can,” Jackson said Thursday.

There’s no estimate yet on total damage from the fire.

Since Tuesday, the Red Cross has staffed a respite center at Faith Free Lutheran Church, 405 Liberty St., to connect people with resources and provide financial assistance for immediate needs such as lodging. About 20 residents have been helped.

Today, from 1 to 3 p.m., will be the last day the respite center will be open.

Other community organizations, such as the United Way, will start taking over to help residents with long-term needs, according to Anna Fernandez-Gevaert, regional communications director for the Red Cross Montana and Idaho region.

The fire and explosion resulted in one fatality. Susan Denise Lake, 62, was pronounced dead at the scene of the Glacier State Apartments fire.

The cause of her death and the fire remain under investigation by the Kalispell Police Department and the Kalispell Fire Department.

Residents needing assistance may call United Way of Northwest Montana 752-7266.

Hilary Matheson is a reporter for The Daily Inter Lake. She may be reached at 758-4431 or [email protected].