The Power of Connection
84-year-old Herbert and his son, Joseph, were spending some quality time together when the unthinkable happened. A car slid off the road beside his home, crashing into Herbert’s living room. Joseph was trapped in the wreckage underneath the weight of the vehicle, his life hanging in the balance.
News of the accident spread quickly, reaching the ears of volunteers from The Salvation Army Jennings County Service Extension Unit. Without hesitation, they rushed to the scene with a desire to provide hope to the family in their time of need. When the volunteers arrived, they saw Herbert alone outside, shivering in the cold air. He sat watching the EMTs rush into his home in hopes of rescuing his son, and in his shock and fear had become oblivious to his own discomfort.
One of the volunteers removed his coat and placed it around Herbert's shivering shoulders. With their emergency supplies, they found a blanket and placed it over his lap. Understanding that Herbert’s thoughts were scattered amidst the chaos, the volunteers wanted to be sure that the family was cared for and supported. When the EMTs told Herbert that Joseph was going to be airlifted to Indianapolis, the Salvation Army volunteers contacted Herbert’s other son, who lived out of the area, and informed him of the devastating incident involving his father and brother. They remained by Hebert's side, offering his support and making sure that he understood everything emergency responders were communicating to him.
Since Herbert's home was badly damaged, the volunteers helped him into one of their vehicles and transported him to a local shelter. They remained by his side, offering support and companionship as he was provided with a bed and food. After ensuring that Herbert felt settled, the Salvation Army volunteers contacted the police and requested their assistance retrieving Herbert's personal belongings from his damaged house, including his cell phone, wallet, and medication. No detail was too small when it came to Herbert’s comfort and stability.
Before parting ways, and at Herbert’s humble request, the volunteers joined hands with Herbert to pray for rest and strength for his family. It was a moment that touched each individual’s heart, reminding them of the power of human connection and the importance of lending a helping hand. Your support helps The Salvation Army be there when our neighbors, like Herbert and his family, need us the most.