By Frank Jones, American Red Cross

For more than 40 years, a giant 300-year-old oak spread its limbs to shelter the home of Janette Goolsby from the summer heat and the winter winds. The branches had witnessed the trials and joys of raising three children as well as the deep sorrow of the loss of a spouse and a sister the same year. As the rain fell and thunder roared on January 11, 2024, Janette settled into her cozy bed for a restful night’s sleep. Yet she woke about 5 a.m. to discover she had no working clock and no electricity. As Janette sleepily searched for a flashlight, she heard water dripping from the living room ceiling and put large bowls under the drips. As Janette looked out the door using her flashlight, she was shocked to discover that the 300-year-old oak had fallen on her house, crushing her carport and her car. Janette quickly turned toward the living room and realized that water was dripping because there was a tree branch through the ceiling. As the shock of the situation set in, Janette said what her mind was screaming, “God help me.” As she spoke the words of her petition, a sudden calm assurance settled into Janette’s spirit.

At dawn on January 12, Janette realized she could not remain in her house, and a snowstorm was predicted the following week. As the phone calls began, responses came quickly, Janette remarked, “I slept through the storm and woke up to a very big mess, but we will get it cleaned up because we all work together.” Indeed, community leaders and the American Red Cross worked together to remove the tree, cover the roof with tarps, and restore electrical power to Janette’s home in just 3 days. As Janette moved back into her house and endured the months required for permanent repairs, she relied on her faith for strength and support.

While each disaster is different, and responses must be tailored to the needs and resources of each community, the Red Cross responds to an increasing number of disasters each year. The Red Cross provides safe shelter, food, relief supplies, financial assistance, and comfort to those in need. The Red Cross works closely with local partners to ensure that people get the help they need to get back on their feet. The Red Cross empowers its community partners to lead the recovery process while providing additional support to those in need.

Though the large oak is now gone, the lessons learned remain. “God protected us from injuries and the rest is just stuff. Everything is going to be okay,” said Janette. Indeed, Janette had about 300 small crosses made from the wood of that ancient oak. As Janette gives the small crosses to friends and family, she is reminded of the strength she found in her faith and that no situation is hopeless when community leaders and the Red Cross work together to provide relief.