By Scott Loudermelt

It was April of 1977, and relentless rains had triggered devastating floods across our community. I remember the water rising—fast, muddy, and unforgiving. It swallowed everything in its path. Our house was torn from its foundation. We lost everything, including our beloved family pet.

All we had left were the clothes on our backs—and each other.

When the floodwaters finally receded, my parents took us to a Red Cross Relief Center. I didn’t know what to expect. I was cold, hungry, and scared.

A woman in a Red Cross vest greeted us. She handed me a wool U.S. Army blanket (which I thought was pretty cool) and a warm sausage biscuit—the first hot food I’d had in days.

But what I remember most was the hug.

She didn’t say much. She didn’t have to. Her hug said everything:
“You’re safe now. It’s going to be okay.”

That hug stayed with me. Nearly 50 years later, I still remember the warmth, the comfort, and the kindness.

Today, I serve as the Executive Director of my community’s Red Cross, and I carry that moment with me every day. It reminds me of the power of compassion—and the lasting impact a single act of kindness can have.

That’s why I’m inviting you to become a Shelter Hero.

The American Red Cross Shelter Heroes program empowers everyday people to support their neighbors when disaster strikes. Shelter Heroes are trained to respond quickly, offering safe shelter, warm meals, and—most importantly—compassion.

They live in the same communities they serve. They understand local needs. They bring comfort when it’s needed most.

Shelter Heroes are the reason the Red Cross can show up when everything else falls apart.

If you’ve ever wondered how you can help your community in times of crisis, this is your chance.

Join us. Become a Shelter Hero Today

Watch Scott’s full story here.