Richard Henry arrived at shelter needing help; now helping others

We’ve all heard the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. Local Navy veteran Richard Henry chose to put that old saying into action when he lost everything, including his home, during the recent tornado.

The tornado that struck Henry’s home wasn’t the first difficult life transition he faced as Henry recently lost his wife and son. With no place to stay and needing comfort and safety, Henry arrived at the Revive Church American Red Cross shelter. 

“I came to the shelter because I felt lonely,” said Henry. “When I came here, I felt so much love and kindness from the Red Cross volunteers that I decided to volunteer and help at the shelter. “

Since arriving at the shelter, Henry has put his experience a Navy chef to use ensuring fresh tea, ice, coffee, and water are available to all. Eager to continue to contribute, Henry also filled out his application to be a Red Cross volunteer. 

“Volunteering has personally been a blessing to me,” said Henry. “Not only to receive help from the Red Cross, but also to I get to use my knowledge and service at the shelter where I’m staying. If you have time, volunteer with the Red Cross because its work is not only saving lives but saving communities.”

For more information on how you can help those affected by the recent Houston-area tornado or to volunteer, go to redcross.org/Texas.

If you need a place to stay, the Revive Church is open as a shelter. The shelter is located at 1062 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena. (As of February 3)

Story by Kyndal Dugger