by Andrea Carlson, American Red Cross Public Affairs
On Tuesday, August 4, 2020 more than 150 people saw their entire lives turn upside down after a fire ripped through an apartment complex in Pueblo, Colorado. Nearly every single unit was deemed uninhabitable.
“It’s been a something else, whirlwind is one way to put it. It’s been hard, a challenge for sure,” says Lisa Heister.
Lisa and her 10-year-old son, Scott found themselves without many options and were one of many families who turned to the American Red Cross of Colorado for support.
“They are giving us everything we need; a place to stay, food to eat, safety. If it weren’t for the Red Cross, I don’t know what we would do,” says Lisa. “I would have never expected this kind of treatment in a situation like this. I am emotional. I am a single mom and my little boy expects me to make everything alright and I wouldn’t have been able to do that for him and these volunteers have.”
Since Tuesday, Lisa and her son have been staying at a Red Cross non-congregate shelter. There they have received meals, snacks, immediate needs and supplies, medical checks and mental health support. They are also getting additional help from community partners to help them restart their life and get back on their own two feet.
Each day they meet with several volunteers to ensure they are getting their needs met, support provided and help moving forward.
“It blows my mind these are volunteers. They give their time and have made this whole experience so personal. I cannot say enough good things about them. They have made this easier for us,” says Lisa.
“I never expected this treatment, help and support. I have gone off and lost it a few times, but they walk me through it, let me cry and then get me laughing again,” says Lisa. “They aren’t just giving us the stuff we need but are also giving moms like me, a chance to have little breakdowns. They are just awesome.”
It warms my heart to see how the clients we assist view us! It is truly a privilege to help them through this difficult challenge, and we are hoping (and working hard!) for a full and successful recovery for each and every one of them.