By Alexis Gonzalez, American Red Cross

Adam Freed, who sought refuge in a Clearwater, Fl American Red Cross shelter after Hurricane Milton tore through the state, found a treasure among trash. Freed, a musician, was cleaning debris from Clearwater streets and beaches when he spotted a bright red guitar.

Freed saw a new beginning in the old guitar and a way to lift the spirits of fellow shelter residents.

“With a little TLC and some new guitar strings, I can fix this guitar right up,” Freed told the shelter manager. “Where can I set up for my shelter concert?”

Freed was on his way to Florida when Milton hit. He decided to wait out the hurricane before he came home. Unfortunately, his accommodations were destroyed, and he needed a place to stay. Freed discovered emergency Red Cross shelters open throughout the state.

“Being grateful and finding the positive in things can help us through these struggles,” says Freed.

Freed had never before needed a Red Cross shelter and didn’t know what to expect.

“The atmosphere is different here,” he says. “The staff and volunteers are so nice and smile whenever they greet and check on you.”

A shelter volunteer interviewed Freed and discovered his particular needs. Each day, the volunteer greeted Freed and asked how he was doing. When her deployment ended, and Freed was at work, she left an encouraging goodbye note on his bed.

“It really struck my heart,” Freed says. “You all are here, and you see us. We’re not just numbers; we’re people who needed help, and the Red Cross has helped us.”

People need support now, and we can’t do this alone. Please help by making a financial donation, making an appointment to give blood or platelets, or signing up to become a volunteer by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).