Story told by: Nick Gibson 

Imagine being sound asleep in your home and within seconds being woken up to grey smoke everywhere.  

That’s what happened to Shekeria McKay who lived in Varnville, South Carolina in late March.  

“I was terrified. I opened the door to let some of the smoke out and realized we couldn’t stop the fire. It wasn’t a big fire at the time, but I realized it was already in the ceiling where we needed assistance, so I called 911,” said Shekeria. 

While a portion of Shekeria’s house was in flames, she didn’t really know what to think because it was an overwhelming experience. 

“There were a lot of emotions going on during that time,” said Shekeria. “I was in fear of losing everything and having to start back over. It is something that is very devastating.” 

Shekeria says after the fire, everything wasn’t destroyed but her home was unlivable because of water firefighters used to put out the blaze. Unfortunately, many people like Shekeria experience home fires, leaving some families with nothing to go back to. 

The Red Cross responds to about 65,000 disasters a year — and the majority are home fires. Here in South Carolina each day, the Red Cross responds to an average of six homes fires every day.  

Shekeria adds shortly after things had settled down, she called the Red Cross for help. She says an outstanding Red Cross volunteer helped her with the next steps and made everything feel all right. 

”Y’all gave me financial assistance. Her name was Sara. She was wonderful; she called every week checking up on me. She gave me resources and people I could call for further assistance,” said Shekeria. 

When the worst happens, the Red Cross is there. After a home fire, Red Cross volunteers work with fire departments to connect with families and provide support including emergency lodging, financial assistance and emotional support. 

Shekeria says right now, she’s still searching for her next place to live. She never imagined she would be in this position. Looking back on everything that changed her life so drastically, she is grateful for the support the Red Cross has offered her. Adding that she is working to bring normalcy back to her life. 

“I’m very appreciative and just thankful. I’m in the process of getting everything back to normal,” said Shekeria. “I’m in the process of trying to buy a new home.” 

The need is constant to help families affected by home fires and other disasters. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to become a volunteer.