To the editor:

On February 18, our family’s home was damaged by a fire that has made our house uninhabitable for the next 9 months. The most important thing is we are all safe.

We are so truly thankful to all of those who have reached out with generous offers of clothing, food, time and support. As newer residents of Barrington, we have felt especially grateful for the huge support system that has emerged around us since the fire. Friends, neighbors, and perfect strangers have been willing to help at a moment’s notice with all manner of needs. We feel so well taken care of.

The day of the fire a person stopped her car to offer warm coats to me and my daughter and has continued to check on us- thanks Ellen! Just one of many examples of folks swerving from their path to jump in and offer support. Other neighbors immediately swooped in and took in our children and watched them as the house was being secured by our incredible, brave and kind town firefighters and police officers. We feel so blessed and grateful to all!

Barrington is like all towns across America as it struggles with the political divides of our nation, whether over flags flown at town hall, a tense national election, or heated disagreements between neighbors. As a queer and multi-racial family, we do not look away from issues of equity. We are directly impacted by, and committed to, the steadfast work of people who support an anti-racist community culture through advocacy and dialogue that center on our awareness of our humanity towards one another.

The outpouring of help makes us reflect on the privilege we have while living in such an affluent and safe town. We do not take for granted the ability for people here to offer meals, blankets, board games, rental properties and contractor recommendations. Nor do we forget that, despite our current circumstances, our family remains fully employed, healthy, safe and wrapped in resources. In many towns in our country, including Barrington, there are families who do not have such security, who are vulnerable to food scarcity, under-employment, homelessness and discrimination. 

For now, we have everything we need; food, clothing, and a comfortable, safe place to stay. The only thing we are looking for now is a long-term rental for a family of 5, with 3 small dogs and 1 cat, preferably in the Barrington/East Bay area. Otherwise we are covered!

For anyone who would like to help others in need, please consider donating to or getting involved in any of the below organizations. To all those who have provided our family resources, safety and comfort during this stressful time, we will always be grateful and are here to return the kindness in the future.

https://www.showingupforracialjustice.org/

https://www.rihomeless.org/about-homelessness

https://www.beneficentchurch.org/donate.html

http://adoptionri.org/

https://www.redcross.org/local/rhode-island.html

https://www.youthprideri.org/

https://www.ricj.org/

A particular shout out to our Friends in BE Collaborative – Thank you so much for your help. <3

May We all Make Life less Difficult for each other as often and well as we can –

Amy & Emma & Jae, Jaelen, Jalah & the dogs, Rusty, Gertie & Maudie & the cat, Alli

Barrington