Long-time Red Cross volunteers Warren and Rita Kretzmeier, who have lived in Fritch, Texas, for decades, returned to their property after almost two months in temporary housing. The Kretzmeiers were volunteering at a Red Cross shelter during the Windy Duece fire when they lost their home. Their new home has ramps for ease of access to both their home and storm shelter. Their dogs, Honey and Max, are happy to be home too."The prairie has started to recover and grow back," shared Rita as she looked across her land. Even the birds have returned to the Kretzmeier's land with nesting materials for the cactus tree they once called home. "We wouldn't have done quite as well with our recovery without the support of those we already knew from the Red Cross in the Panhandle and those we met along the way."

March 04, 2024

Rita and Warren Kretzmeier are used to helping others recover from disasters. The long-time American Red Cross volunteers have been responding to the needs of their neighbors in the Texas Panhandle for more than 50 years.

As the Windy Deuce fire threatened communities throughout the area, the Kretzmeiers monitored the situation in Hutchison County from their home in Fritch, Texas, providing updates on social media. Then, the call came to evacuate.

As flames drew nearer, they grabbed a few bags and fled their home with their two dogs. They went to the Johnson Park Youth Center in Borger, where the Red Cross opened a shelter. As concerned residents entered the shelter seeking refuge, the Kretzmeiers shared updates as soon as they received them, keeping everyone informed and prepared.

Despite the destruction and uncertainty ahead, Warren found comfort in the resilience of those at the shelter. He focused on supporting those around him, using his Red Cross training, even though he and Rita were now the ones receiving care and support from the Red Cross.

“Canadian, Fritch, Stinnett and all other communities affected are very strong,” Warren said. “They will come out of this together.”

Unfortunately, The Kretzmeiers, like hundreds of others, lost their home in the fire. Luckily, Warren and Rita were prepared for a worst-case scenario because of their preparedness training with the Red Cross. Warren wasted no time filing insurance claims and diligently contacting the Red Cross to begin the recovery process.

Even as wildfires continue to rage through the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma and Kansas, trained Red Cross disaster responders are in affected communities daily, distributing relief supplies, supporting feeding efforts and helping people with medical or disability needs, as well as emotional and spiritual support. 

The Kretzmeiers continue to help where they can at the Red Cross office in Amarillo. And as Red Cross volunteers continue to pour into the region, Warren emphasized the importance of rallying support and spreading awareness about the need for volunteers in the affected areas.

“I've been with the Red Cross for 54 years now, and I will continue for as long as I can.”, Warren said. “The best way to be a survivor is to help other people survive.”

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

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).