KEARNEY, Neb.(KSNB) — Local organizations played a critical role in supporting firefighters during recent Nebraska grass fires, with Hot Meals USA providing food to crews battling the blazes.

Hot Meals USA responds to disasters after receiving a phone call.

“Any natural disaster or human disaster, and we are invited in, we go and feed people,” Brenda Cochran said. Cochran is manager of Hot Meals USA.

Cochran said mobilizing volunteers is not a problem when the community is in need. The organization deployed to Ogallala during the fires.

“We had people show up at 5 a.m. or 5:30 a.m.,” Cochran said. “We had people stay the majority of the day.”

Lorena Beckius said the Ogallala team handled the Morrill Fire while North Platte covered the Cottonwood Fire.

“At that point I didn’t know what we were signing up for, but you know as district governor when there is a situation, and something happens like you just step in without even thinking,” Beckius said.

Workers prepared 600 meals three times a day.

Grand Island Rural Fire Chief Mike Keene was among those fighting the fire. He said the meal service was essential.

“We don’t have time to go to a store before we leave to head out west,” Keene said. “I mean we are out there for 48 hours. Without them, we won’t be able to do what we do.”

Janet McKee said the organization maintains readiness for deployment.

“We have to prepare because we go whenever we are called,” McKee said. “So, it could be here in Nebraska or anywhere in the country.”

Beckius said volunteers appreciated the response from firefighters.

“They like how everyone greeted them with smiles so it was a great opportunity to be part of it,” Beckius said.

Information about volunteering with Hot Meals USA is available online.

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