LAKE STEVENS, Wash. — This week’s storm was deadly and devastating for many families in Western Washington. But amid the damaged homes and downed trees, people also jumped in to help their neighbors.
“It’s nice to have those people,” says Lynn Zielasko, a long-time resident of Lake Stevens.
Zielasko says Tuesday night was a night she’ll never forget.
“I was on the phone and looking at the trees going crazy. When all of a sudden- here came the tree,” says Zielasko.
She posted images to social media, showing how a tree crashed into her truck and home. She says within minutes people started reaching out; some people she knew, while others were total strangers. People offered her a place to stay, a generator, gas, heaters, and even their tree removal services; free of charge.
The acts of kindness gave her a sense of pride in her hometown.
“When things happen, people show up,” says Zielasko.
On Friday, KIRO 7 witnessed city-wide offerings of help in big ways and small.
One resident put out a roadside charging station for neighbors without power.
The Lake Stevens Community Food Bank lost power, only to gain dozens of new volunteers.
People showed up to Thursday’s distribution with backup generators, lights, and food to make sure no one went hungry.
“We needed some extra hands and the community really stepped up,” says Anthony Hawley with the food bank.
Across town, widespread power outages meant hot meals were in short supply.
Ome Arias still had power, so she went to work in her kitchen.
“I was like ‘I’m in a position of privilege right now. What can I do to help the community?’,” says Ome.
She settled on making hot soup, with supplies donated by Lake Stevens’ residents. She then loaded the back of her car and drove into the darkened neighborhoods nearby to knock on strangers’ doors.
“It was just so heartwarming every time I went to a door. People were in coats inside their houses. Blankets. And I was like ‘I have a warm meal for you guys. Would you like it?’,” says Ome.
She says she was able to feed about 40 families in one night.
“Our world needs more selfless people,” says Zielasko.
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