BY RACHEL DOVE
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
WARFIELD — When a disaster occurs anywhere in the United States, American Red Cross volunteer teams deploy to begin arranging temporary housing and meeting other needs such as food and clothing. A Martin County volunteer returned Thursday from a three-week deployment to Hawaii, where wildfires destroyed 2,500 acres and 2,200 structures, claiming over 100 lives.
For Jamie Taylor of Warfield, a disaster response volunteer with the Red Cross since 2015, Hawaii was his 72nd deployment.
“When we think of Hawaii, we think of lush, green grass, clear blue skies, beautiful mountain ranges and sparking waters. For the most part, that is what you do experience, but the fires that ripped across the Island of Maui left nothing but ashes in its wake,” Taylor said.
“The devastation we saw on the island of Maui, especially in Lahaina, was nothing less than horrific…Nothing was left — not a home, business, government building or school. Everything was wiped out, and many lost their lives. Our group was assigned to assist those that had called this particular location home.”
According to Taylor, in the beginning, schools, community centers and other structures served as temporary shelters. Motels in nearby towns also served as lodging. Volunteers provided clothing and other personal needs.
“The governor was adamant that the victims would not be forgotten or continue living in these temporary settings for an extended period. He began a program in partnership with the Red Cross and other emergency response organizations to acquire family rental properties. Due to the high cost of living in Hawaii, it became evident that many displaced people could not afford to start over on the islands.
“Those who lost their homes and livelihoods were offered airfare and financial assistance to start over on the mainland. A number of those with family residing in the greater United States took the offer and left Hawaii,” said Taylor. “I was shocked at what everything cost on the islands. I understand that starting from scratch would be a very difficult task, especially for those without substantial savings or business opportunities.”
Several Red Cross volunteers from Kentucky helped make up the response team, but Taylor was the only one from Eastern Kentucky.
“One of the hardest things for us to adapt to was the time difference between here and there,” said Taylor. “Hawaii is six hours behind us, so it’s a big change. By the time we adjusted, it was time to fly home and get used to the time here.”
Taylor plans to catch up on personal responsibilities and rest. However, he has received notification that he may soon be on a plane heading south to Florida.
“Natural disasters are something none of us can control or prevent,” said Taylor. “All we can do is stand ready to lend a hand wherever needed. When they call, I’m ready to go…I’m honored to be able to help those in need. I don’t think anyone can have a greater calling in their life than to step up when there are those in situations they never asked for or expected. We cannot control the weather. Whether it’s heavy rain that will lead to flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes or wildfires, you know someone will need you. That’s what they all have in common. So, I pack a bag, keep it by the door and wait for the call.”
To learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer, message Jamie Taylor on Facebook or call 606-939-2085.