O P I N I O N
THE SOAPBOX
Stand up. Speak up. It’s your turn.
Today, I witnessed the incredible heart of the Manchester community as they rallied for those displaced by the devastating 3-alarm fire on Union Street.
The response began almost immediately on New Year’s Day. The Slavic Evangelical Baptist Church—which shares space with the First Baptist Church of Manchester NH—opened its doors to victims in the middle of their own New Year’s service. They selflessly shared the food they had prepared for their celebration, providing immediate warmth, comfort, and nourishment.
By Friday morning, the church transformed into an official command center for the American Red Cross of Northern New England.
The scene was one of intense coordination:
Housing: Red Cross volunteers, the Manchester Housing Authority, and Craig St. Pierre of Choice Realty worked tirelessly to secure long-term housing, including newly built apartments just blocks away.
Government Support: Fire Chief Ryan Cashin and Mayor Jay Ruais were on-site to direct efforts alongside the City Welfare and Health Departments.
Generosity: From anonymous donors dropping off Walmart gift cards to the distribution of cell phones for those who lost their landlines, no detail was overlooked.
By 2 p.m. Friday, several families already had keys to new apartments and essential supplies. The mission continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where volunteers will return to support the more than 50 people displaced by this tragedy.
Information for the fire victims and services.
Also at this time any financial donations should be directed to Salvation Army Manchester, NH.
Jeffrey Hastings is a photographer and owner of Manchester Information Facebook page. He can be reached at jhastings@frameofmindphoto.com.