Patten Fire Community Response (1/8/26)

                                                                  (12/17/25) 

Meeting Summary & Action Plan

Date: January 8, 2026 | Location: Stetson Memorial UMC

 

Community Partners in Attendance (11) 

  • Patten Town Office: Britteny Woods, Raye Porter
  • Washburn Memorial (Sherman): Pastor Dena, Elder Allison Roy
  • Calvary Baptist: Retired Pastor Steve, Karen
  • Pentecostal Church: Pastor Frank, Amy Randall
  •  Stetson Memorial UMC: Pastor Joyce Kang, Penny Gowen(Lay Leader), Sara Hill (SPRC Chair), Raye Porter(Trustee)

 

I. Situation Report

  • The Incident: A devastating fire on December 17 destroyed the Hathaway apartment building and garage.
  • The Impact: 13 neighbors have been displaced, including the elderly, children, and those with disabilities. Most lost everything but the clothes on their backs. The owners and employees lost their job.
  • The Challenge: While the owner plans to rebuild, it will take approximately two years. Our neighbors need stability, transportation, and emotional support during this long "gap" period.

II. Immediate Support Needs

  • Financial Aid: Funds are needed for security deposits, first/last month’s rent, and utility hookups.
  • Transportation: Many victims do not drive. Volunteers are needed to provide rides for groceries and appointments.
  • Household Items: We are shifting focus toward collecting toiletries and daily necessities rather than clothing.

III. The Action Plan: "The Long Road Home"

1. Long-Term Housing Search

We are asking all congregations to help identify housing leads for the next 24 months.

  • Looking for: Local apartments, houses, short-term rentals, or private rooms.
  • Goal: Transition victims from temporary couches/motels to stable homes.

 

2. Monthly Community Luncheons

To ensure our neighbors feel seen, heard, and supported, we will host a monthly meal for fire victims and a small team of "encouragers" from each church. (Fire victims + One family member + a few encouragers) 

  • When: 3rd Saturday of every month at 12:00 PM.
  • Purpose: To provide spiritual care, mental health support, and a sense of community.

 

Hosting Schedule:

  • February 21(Noon): Pentecostal Church
  • March 21(Noon): Stetson Memorial UMC (Methodist)
  • April 18 (Noon): Washburn Memorial Church (Sherman)
  • May: Cultural center (TBD) 

 

3. Ongoing Spiritual Care

Each church will designate a small "Encourager Team" to provide prayer and a consistent presence for those still in shock and grieving their loss.

 

IV. Next Steps

  • Next Meeting: Following the April Luncheon (Date TBD).
  • Contact: Please report any housing leads or volunteer availability to your respective Pastor or the Town Office.

"Even though our loss is great, the love of God expressed through His people is greater still."

 

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