Community is often invisible on a day-to-day basis, but in times of emergency it becomes palpable – and essential. In December 2006, the Seattle area was hit with record breaking storms, and a million homes around the region were left without power. Families in our complexes were among those who found themselves in the dark and the cold.

Neighbors and New Futures staff members were quick to lend helping hands. Staff called to check on families, and if phone lines were out, knocked on doors. Power returned by Monday to two of our sites, but some families at our SeaTac site were without power until Wednesday. Families, who were already struggling to make ends meet, lost all the food in their refrigerators and freezers. Oddly, the community center in SeaTac did have some power, so staff cooked a hot meal to share, and also bought food families could take back home. Some homes that did have power welcomed neighbors to come over for showers or to get warm. And everyone made sure that people knew not to bring outdoor grills inside for warmth or cooking, as one family had before being alerted to the danger.

As all of us in the Puget Sound region realized clearly after the power outages, sometimes the most precious things in the world can be a hot meal, a caring neighbor, and a chance to get warm. New Futures was honored to be a part of ensuring the families we serve were warm, nourished and safe.

To read more inspiring stories about the kids and families of New Futures, visit our Story Archives.