While most of us were asleep, Stephen stood outside what used to be his house, watching
firefighters battle the flames that consumed everything he had. As a Red Cross volunteer, I was
there offering comfort and support as Stephen tried to make sense of a night that changed
everything.

I’ll never forget the image of him clutching a small suitcase, the only thing he managed to save,
his voice trembling as he said: “I don’t have any family. I reached out to my social worker, but
it’s the weekend … I have no one else to turn to.” My heart sank. In that moment, I could feel the
weight of his loss, the heartbreak of losing not just a home, but the place that held his memories,
safety and peace. Yet even in that darkness, the Red Cross was there providing shelter, hope and
a path forward.

Checking in a few weeks later, Stephen admitted it was hard but surprisingly said: “It’s the
kindness of people I didn’t even know that’s helping me get back on my feet.” That kindness and
lifeline comes from generous donors. In 2025, we responded to 222 home fires, assisting more
than 730 Mainers. This holiday season, please join this circle of compassion to ensure that when
the next crisis hits, help and hope are only moments away. Give today at redcross.org. Together,
let’s make sure no one in Maine faces disaster alone.

Uchizi Phakati
Biddeford