Enid, OK— In the wake of the wildfires that ravaged parts of Oklahoma last week, many families are left to rebuild their lives from the ashes. Among them are the Hutton and Wishon families, who lost their homes and possessions in the flames. Yet, despite the immense devastation, the local community has come together to offer support, with organizations like Ebenezer Baptist Church partnering with World Vision to provide much-needed aid.
Alyssa Hutton, a mother who watched her home burn down from a security camera, described the traumatic experience. “We watched it come up to the house in the woods. We saw a corner of the house catch. We knew it was gone before we went back out there,” she recalled. Like many others, the Hutton family lost nearly everything in the fire, with only their animals, a few important documents, and the clothes on their backs escaping the destruction.
Trent Wishon, another fire victim, also lost his home. He described the scene as “like a war zone,” a powerful metaphor for the level of devastation caused by the wildfires.
As survivors grapple with the loss of their homes, volunteers have been working tirelessly to lend a hand. While the aid provided may seem small—socks, cleaning supplies, and other essentials—it has meant the world to those who have lost so much. “I mean, we don’t have anything and so this is everything,” said Hutton. “It’ll be the only things we own, so it means a lot.”
Many of the volunteers come from local schools, including students from Coyle Public Schools. Colby Cagle, the superintendent of Coyle schools, explained that although the students were supposed to be enjoying their spring break, they were instead learning valuable life lessons through their service. “They’re learning life lessons here and learning how to give back and honor their community and honor themselves in the process,” Cagle said.
The response from local organizations and volunteers highlights the power of community during times of crisis. For the families affected by the fires, the support they’ve received is not just about the material goods—it’s about the hope and solidarity that comes with knowing their neighbors stand with them in their time of need.
As the recovery efforts continue, Oklahomans are finding strength in one another, proving that even in the face of disaster, the spirit of community remains unshaken.
