When flames consume a home, what families remember most is
not always the fire. Sometimes, it’s the face of the person who showed up when
everything else was gone.
That face is often Mary’s.
A longtime volunteer supported through United Way of Central
Illinois, Mary responds after housefires to provide emergency supplies and
emotional support. She “shows up with heart,” and she is happy to be that
support for families.
“You’d be surprised how powerful a stuffed bear can be in
that moment,” she said. “It’s not just about what’s lost, it’s about reminding
people that they’re not alone.”
A mission fueled by generosity
Mary is one of many trained volunteers who respond after
disasters like local house fires thanks to funding from United Way donors. She
delivers emergency kits that include toiletries, clothing vouchers, food
assistance, and essentials (even teddy bears for the little ones). These items
are stocked year-round because of generous giving throughout the year.
And when she arrives on the scene, she’s not just delivering
items. She is delivering presence.
“You have to understand,” she said, “these are often the
worst days of someone’s life. There’s fear, confusion, and shock. Just being
there, listening, and offering support, that’s what makes the difference.”
She remembers one night vividly. A small boy had lost his
favorite stuffed animal in the fire. His dad had searched but could not find it
in the rubble. The family went to their hotel room for the night and the next
day, Mary returned to them to check in. She brought a new bear for him to hold.
“He didn’t ask for much,” she said. “He just wanted
something to hold.”
Beyond the flames
Mary’s work doesn’t end when the smoke clears. Mary and the
other volunteers ensure that the families are connected with housing support,
supplies, and community resources to begin rebuilding their lives. That
extended care is possible because of donors who fund the wraparound services
through United Way.
Powered by you
Mary’s story will be featured along with four others in
United Way’s Power of Community video series. This will showcase the real-life
impact of local giving.
Mary’s compassion showcases the bridge between crisis and
recovery. Each year, volunteers like Mary assist hundreds of individuals in our
community. None of that work is possible without donors who give to United Way.
Your donations help families feel safe, boys sleep through the night with a new
stuffed animal to hold, and individuals feel the power of community support.
United Way’s Power of Community campaign this year
encourages people to donate, volunteer, and spread awareness. The message is
simple – whatever you can give, give it today. A crisis can happen at any time,
and United Way is here to help.
United Way of Central Illinois mobilizes communities and
volunteers to action so all can thrive. Find out more at www.uwcil.org or on
our social media accounts.
This article appears in Jun 5-11, 2025.
