In The Midst Of Irene: The Faces Of Volunteerism

Leaving behind their own families and homes, a group of folks from town helped ease the minds of many others who came for refuge on the night of the worst tropical storm to hit Connecticut in more than 26 years.

Emergency shelter volunteers included First Selectman Willie Fritz, Selectman Tom Vicino, Andrea Woliver, Dave Burnham, John Hussaini and Donna Whalen. Others helped out as well.

People came to Andrews Memorial Town Hall, which served as an emergency shelter during the storm, for many reasons. They lived close to the water, they were worried that their mobile home may not be standing after Tropical Storm Irene, or they had a medical condition which necessitated power.

The reasons didn't matter - what mattered is that they had a place to stay and be safe.

There was plenty of water, coffee, sandwiches and hot food. Cots were provided and there were brand-new fleece blankets provided by the Red Cross who had a representative on hand.

Was it home? No, but it was a safe haven for those in need.