The American Red Cross Connecticut team joined the City of Waterbury, the National Guard, United Way of Greater Waterbury, Wilton CERT, Team Rubicon, the Salvation Army, and other community partners to help ensure that more than 100,000 residents in Waterbury and the surrounding towns had access to safe water during the recent disruption. It was a true collaborative effort, led with a shared compassion to helping neighbors in need.

Throughout the operation, approximately fifty Red Cross staff and volunteers, worked through snowy conditions and bitter cold while still bringing steady energy and warm smiles to the distribution site. Holiday music played softly in the background on two of the days, lifting spirits as cars lined up and residents offered heartfelt thank‑yous to the teams handing out water. Even in the freezing weather, the positive energy on site was unmistakable.

Over the course of the operation, the impact of this community effort was felt in every car that pulled up and every “thank you” shouted from a window. Between Saturday and Monday evening, teams helped distribute an extraordinary amount of water to families across Waterbury and the surrounding towns. Volunteers helped move more than 350 pallets of bottled water, nearly 29,000 cases in total, adding up to over 95,000 gallons. Altogether, that meant more than 721,000 bottles delivered directly into the hands of residents who needed them most.

Reflecting on the experience, Red Cross volunteer Mike Gabriel shared, “It’s a great feeling to know you’re giving back to the community and always helping. It’s amazing to see how grateful most of the residents are—having nothing, and receiving even a simple case of water means so much to somebody. It’s unbelievable that such a small thing can make such a big difference in someone’s life.”

The Waterbury Fire Department played an essential role by providing their Rehab Bus, giving volunteers a warm place to rest and recharge between shifts. That support made a meaningful difference and helped keep everyone safe throughout the long days.

This response highlighted the strength of partnership and the power of community. Every organization and individual involved contributed to a coordinated effort that ensured families received the resources they needed. As Gabriel noted, “It’s amazing how the volunteers come together. They travel from far and near to help in any community situation.” It was a powerful reminder of what can happen when people show up for one another with kindness and purpose.

Volunteers are the heart of our mission! If you would like to become a Red Cross volunteer, please visit http://www.redcross.org/volunteer.