Story and photos by Kate Walters, Volunteer/Public Affairs.
Hanover, CO – Saturday, April 21, 2018 10:00 P.M. – After a wildfire destroyed 23 homes in the tight-knit community of Hanover, the people gathered together Saturday morning as they began to face the challenging process of recovery. The Hanover School District Administrative team, teachers and staff fed hot breakfast to over 160 members of the community. Dr. Grant Schmidt, School District Superintendent said, “This has been a great time for people to join together, to talk, share stories and support one another.”
Colin shares the story of defending his home against the 117 Fire with Red Cross volunteer Larry Dickerson.
Help poured in from outside of the immediate community in a powerful way. Red Cross Volunteers of Southeastern Colorado were on hand offering cleanup supplies, recovery assistance, and mental health support. Care and Share brought a truckload of fresh food. Goodwill offered gift cards. The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief organization signed up families for help with debris removal. Generally, if you lost a home in the 117 Fire and you came to Hanover High School, you left prepared to hop on the highway of recovery.
David McFarland shares a comforting moment with Red Cross volunteer Barb Bunn and her therapy dog.
The American Red Cross offers these tips to make recovery a smoother experience:
- Keep in mind that getting back into a routine that is comfortable takes time. Be patient with yourself and others.
- Make sure you have a safe place to stay and that medical needs are met.
- Eat healthy, and get enough rest.
- Stay connected with friends and family.
- Stay positive. Remind yourself of how you’ve successfully gotten through difficult times in the past. Reach out when you need support, and help others when they need it.
For more information on the important process of recovery please refer to https://www.redcross.org/ns/site/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services.html. To make a donation or become a volunteer for the Red Cross go to RedCross.org.