LEWISTON, Maine – Following the tragic shootings that occurred on Wednesday night, the Maine community has rallied together to provide support for those affected. The Ramada Hotel and Conference Center in Lewiston has become a temporary home to a cooperative of organizations and individuals dedicated to offering assistance and comfort.
Dubbed Happy Place, the group includes Tri-County Mental Health, Sweetser crisis services, K9 First Responder Inc., and several others specializing in crisis and disaster response and pastoral care. Their aim is to provide immediate support and counseling to those impacted by the shootings.
On Saturday, the attendance at the center was small, but Tri-County Mental Health CEO Catherine Ryder expressed hope that more people would take advantage of the support offered on Sunday. Particularly, they are hoping to provide comfort for children who have been directly affected by the tragedy. A friendly Akita named Niko Suave from K9 First Responders Inc. stole the show, offering silent but supportive cuddles for both adults and children in need.
Niko is a crisis response-trained dog, and his handler, Brad Cole, explained that the organization has responded to similar events in the past, such as the Sandy Hook Massacre. They understand the value of animal-to-human connections, especially for children, and know that Niko’s presence can create a sense of comfort and connection with others.
Religious leaders, such as the Rev. Lisle Blind of St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Windham and Chaplain Cheryl Cuddy of Westbrook Public Safety, are also present at the center to provide crisis support. Reverend Blind expressed her belief in the community’s ability to come together in times of crisis, highlighting the importance of supporting one another during difficult times.
Chaplain Cuddy, who has experience providing crisis services after the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, emphasized the power of community connections and expressed her sadness that it takes tragedy for people to realize the strength of their community.
The crisis responders, including Niko the comfort dog, will continue to be available at the Ramada Hotel and Conference Center on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Their presence serves as a reminder that the community is there to offer support and comfort during this challenging time.
