The last few weeks have been a lot to take in for most members of the community and while there has been worry and panic there has also been those finding opportunities to serve and uplift. Antonio Casillas of Vernal was among those who recognized the growing struggle for others and wanted to find a way to help. The ‘Vernal Strong’ Facebook group was formed as a result and Antonio and his wife Rachel have been managing the page as a place where locals can ask for help and offer help during this difficult time and those who are able to help or are in need can respond. “We have such an amazing community that has come together before and has shown love, kindness and compassion,” shares Rachel. “We all needed to slow down for a second and realize that the only way we were going to get through this was if we could all come together! We’re all dealing with and going through the same thing right now. We needed to find a way we could let people know that they weren’t alone.” Their effort has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response, gaining nearly 5,000 members in a short period of time. On a daily basis members of our community are posting things from helpful tips like where one could find milk at that moment to making offers of yeast, flour, diapers, and other essentials to whoever may be in need. The Casillas have been grateful for the hope and good being shared by so many and want everyone to know that they are surrounded by good people that are willing to help if you are just willing to reach out and ask. “Love and kindness can go a long way when you’re in the middle of a huge storm,” says Rachel. “A little bit can go a long way! We’ve seen that since [my husband] started it [and] it’s been wonderful to see [everyone] come together during such a difficult time.” Uintah County Sheriff Steve Labrum has applauded the ‘Vernal Strong’ and ‘Basin Donation Station’ Facebook groups for what they are doing and has offered to those that participate to use the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office parking lot as a safe place to meet to make exchanges. Well done to the Casillas and all involved in these acts of kindness.
