Here for each other: When tragedy strikes, community responds from the heart

A newcomer to this community might be surprised by what the rest of us already know.

Those who've been here for any length of time have seen it play out time and again.

After a major storm such as Hurricane Matthew in 2016, or when a child is stricken with a life-threatening illness, or -- as we are still wrapping up some of these very stories -- during the holiday season, this community comes together to give selflessly so that others may have whatever is needed.

That kindred, community spirit, despite what people say about the rise and fall of crime rates or the economy, surfaces year in and year out in Wayne County.

This week has been no different. Sure there were a great number of toy drives and food pantry deliveries made leading up to and over Christmas, but one family in Mar-Mac lost their home despite the quick hands of the firefighters who responded and were able to rescue much of the family's already wrapped presents.

The American Red Cross came out and has helped the family a great deal, but so too have community and church members, some known to the family and some strangers.

This isn't the first time that this paper has had to cover a tragedy -- thankfully there were no injuries or fatalities to speak of -- and it certainly won't be the last.

But when we report on these instances, it is generally a safe bet while never taken for granted that the community will respond.

Nice showing, Wayne County. 

Published in Editorials on December 27, 2017 9:16 PM