“We gotta go! The fire’s coming!” is what local Fritch resident Rosa White heard when abruptly awakened from an afternoon nap by her husband as the Texas Panhandle wildfires charged toward their home. With just minutes to spare, they managed to escape the flames and sought refuge at Celebration Family Church, where they spent that first night, not knowing if their house would still be standing the next morning.

The family returned to their home four days later, and the sight greeting them was a testament to the unpredictable nature of wildfires. The house—miraculously untouched—stood amidst a scorched yard. The fire had come within two feet of their second car, but for some reason, the flames changed direction, sparing their vehicle and their home.

While their home, vehicles, and beloved family dog had been spared, the food inside their house was not. Due to the strong wind, the smoke and soot from the scalding embers had touched the side of the home where the kitchen was, spoiling their food and leaving a thick blanket of ash on all their belongings. In need of food and other resources, they returned to the multi-agency recovery resource center, where they found not just food but also the comforting presence of the American Red Cross and necessary items to restock their kitchen.

The couple has weathered 63 years of life's storms and said, “We’ve been through so much together. We’re brave. The Lord kept our house safe, and we know he will continue to provide for us.”

When community members are going through tough times, the Red Cross is always there to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, and a shoulder to lean on. Red Crossers like Alexis exemplify the Red Cross’ dedication to providing recovery support to those affected by devastating disasters.

If you have been affected by the wildfires in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCross.org/NorthTexas.

If you would like to join the community relief effort, you can become a volunteer at RedCross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).