Residents of Manchester offer homes, food to people reeling from attack
Last night, a deadly attack inside a packed arena in Manchester killed 22 people, and wounded dozens more. A horrific moment, with the worst of humanity targeting women and children — mothers and families taking young daughters to their first concert; teenagers excitedly attending the concert in groups. They were all there to see Ariana Grande — and her core audience remains teens and tweens.
This was the UK’s deadliest terror attack since the London transit bombings of 2005. The news began spreading around 7pm Eastern time last night, and panicked, worried observers took to social media.
The first things that come to mind when a senseless act of violence like this happens are fear, panic, and dread. But at a time of utter panic and dread last night, the best of humanity emerged to show us that we are all in this together — and your neighbor really will help you when you need it.
The hashtag #RoomsForManchester began trending on social media quickly after the attack, with people all around Manchester offering rooms, food, company, and warmth to those stranded in the city. The investigation into the attack left a large part of the city cordoned off, and it was very difficult for concert-goers to get out.
Anybody need a lift from Manchester? I can pick up on bury new rd. DM me. #RoomsForManchester
— Emma.C. (@emma331) May 22, 2017
I'm 3 Minutes From Victoria Station With A Comfy Sofa, Wifi, Chargers & Teabags. DM Me If You're Nearby & Stranded. #RoomsForManchester
— Laura O'Connor (@LauraLauraLaur) May 23, 2017
Huge shout out to #HolidayInnExpressManchester for keeping safe all the children after yesterday's horrific attack. #roomsformanchester pic.twitter.com/NRbku2oopn
— Crowne Plaza London (@CPHeathrow) May 23, 2017
For anyone stranded in #manchester, there's lots of lovely students more than willing to help you stay safe ❤️ #roomsformanchester #mmu https://t.co/kJmibfciN6
— Geraldine O'Brien (@gezza_obrien) May 22, 2017
Anyone stuck in Manchester who needs somewhere warm to meet friends & family we will be open to unite families @MENnewsdesk @gmpolice
— The Living Room MCR (@TLRManchester) May 22, 2017
If you are near the arena or Renault Garage give me a shout. We have a room. #Manchester #manchesterexplosion #roomsformanchester
— Mike Boucher (@mikeboucher3) May 22, 2017
I live 5 mins from the Manchester Arena. I have sofa bed, food/drink and phone chargers if anyone needs any help #roomformanchester
— Nick Q (@QHNick) May 23, 2017
We are a 15-20 min taxi ride out of the city centre in Withington. Got a couple of sofas and a spare bed. #roomsformanchester DMs open.
— Rebecca Moore (@rebecca_moore_) May 23, 2017
#Manchester #RoomsForManchester Anyone Needing A Sofa Or A Brew Me And The Mrs Are Opening Our Door. DM
— 2eyes1screen (@2eyes1screen) May 22, 2017
And there are dozens and dozens more. It’s a speck of warmth at a terrible time, knowing that although events like this leave us reeling with a feeling of terror and fear — love and kindness is so much stronger and humanity really will swoop in to lift a city up.
Our thoughts go out to all the families who have lost loved ones, the young concert goers who are now terrified, and anyone else who has been impacted by this horrible attack.
