![](https://cc-md-old.vitamindesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/esperanza-center-new-hero-1550x700-800x361.jpg)
Homeretta Ayala, an adult ESOL coordinator at the Esperanza Center, works with a client Oct. 9. at the temporary location of the outreach, located at the Assisi House at St. Patrick’s Church in Fells Point. (Kevin J. Parks/CR Staff)
In the early hours of Sept. 7, Valerie Twanmoh awoke to a call from the Esperanza Center’s security company informing her that the building’s fire alarms were sounding.