Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- A historic rainstorm flooded the Westpointe neighborhood of Salt Lake City, devastating over two dozen homes.
- A church group organized volunteers to aid cleanup, fostering community unity.
- A block party celebrated resilience, with 150-200 people attending to support recovery.
SALT LAKE CITY — Less than a week ago, a Westpointe neighborhood of Salt Lake City was submerged in water. A historic rainstorm flooded more than two dozen homes, leaving families devastated and uncertain.
But Thursday night, the streets were filled not with water but with music, laughter and the aroma of grilled food — as neighbors gathered for a block party that felt more like a celebration of unity than recovery.
Some of the residents have lived in the area for over 25 years but admitted they were meeting each other for the first time. The catalyst? A church group that rallied volunteers to help clean up the flood damage. What followed was what one woman called "the work of angels."
Victoria Taft, a local teen, was among the first to volunteer.
"I just felt like it was something I could do to make a difference," she said.
The Borden brothers, also youth volunteers, echoed her sentiment.
"It just brings everybody together — to help one another and have that love and compassion for it," one of the brothers said.
Isabel Vega and her daughter, Ines Barrios, were among the families hardest hit.
"It was horrible," Vega recalled. "I was so sad and I cried many times."
But the sadness turned to awe when help arrived.
"I would say about 30 people were already doing lines, everybody passing everything from the inside," she said, describing the swift and organized cleanup effort.
"Because of something horrible that happened, it turned out to be something awesome," Barrios added.
Lance Dunkley, who oversees the neighborhood for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, estimated that between 150 and 200 people came out to help.
"We wanted to bring them both together, have some food and have a good night," he said. "It connects people heart to heart."
As the evening unfolded, the sense of unity was palpable.
"Right now, everybody's one," Barrios said. "The helping hands are angels in the life of every person."
Salt Lake City has set up a relief fund and is actively accepting volunteers to continue supporting affected families. For those looking to lend a hand or donate*, visit the city's official website or contact the local volunteer coordination office.
Thursday's activity was more than a party — it was a testament to the power of community, compassion and the human spirit.
