On April 30, the YWCA of Central Maine started receiving donations for the victims of the Blake Street fire (April 29). Little did we know that there would be multiple fires and that we would have to use several rooms to store the vast volume of donations.

And while media outlets did an excellent job of reporting the fires and the efforts of the YWCA and other nonprofits, no story could adequately describe the intensity and flurry of activity that occurred here.

During the weekend of May 4 and 5 alone, more than 100 volunteers came through our doors to sort and fold the 500-plus bags of clothes, household goods, toys and books that were donated.

The response from the residents of Lewiston and surrounding communities was extraordinary — a true testament to the meaning of community.

A simple thank you to all who donated items or volunteered their time does not seem quite enough. While we would like to acknowledge everyone, it is just not possible. No one donation was greater than another; people gave what they could afford, from the young boy who saved up his allowance and placed it in the Salvation Army kettle to the businessman who presented us with 20 $100 gift cards. All were accepted with the same degree of appreciation.

Although it may seem trite, I send a big shout out to the fine citizens who make up this great community. You know who you are, and as I said many times during the two-week span, “You rock.”

Kathy Durgin-Leighton, executive director

YWCA of Central Maine, Lewiston