In the face of tragedy, the Hampden community is rallying together after a devastating fire ripped through a row of homes. A prayer vigil held by Pathway Fellowship FMC Multicultural Church on Friday, just steps away from the destruction, became a touching testament to a neighborhood shaken, yet resolute. "I'm grateful! How can I not be," Susan Linde, a fire victim, told CBS News Baltimore, expressing her gratitude for the lifesaving alert of a smoke alarm and for community support.
Early Tuesday morning, a severe fire engulfed the 3400 block of Keswick Road affecting at least ten row homes and tragically claiming the lives of Matthew Schmale, 63, and his wife Kathy. While grappling with the loss, residents acknowledged the quick actions that led to escapes. According to a report by WBAL-TV, Linde credited her survival to a firefighter who kicked in her door. Another resident, Jessica Garrett, who is expecting a child, lost everything yet found solace in the support of the broader Baltimore community. "This is the greatest city in America," Garrett said.
Pathway Fellowship FMC's response extended beyond the vigil, as Pastor Dr. Simone Gibson provided resources and aid for those affected. “We wanted to honor those whom we’ve lost, but also wanted to inspire and spark hope,” Dr. Gibson said, as per WBAL-TV. The church has facilitated collections of donations, including monetary and gift card contributions, to aid displaced survivors. Gibson's message was clear, "We are praying for healing and restoration, and God has already begun the work, and so we just want to be a part of it."
