The powerful storm that ripped through parts of Quebec, knocking down trees and power lines, left thousands of residents without power in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG).
Resident Rachel Berger told Global News she was fortunate to have power in her home after the storm.
READ MORE: Lachute hit by F1 tornado during intense storm Tuesday
She took to Facebook to start a thread offering “shelter, food, blankets, a phone charger and a shower” to neighbours affected by the storm.
Berger said she thought it was necessary to help out in her community.
WATCH: Tornado hits Quebec during intense storm
“Especially when the city is focused on clean up and repair,” she said.
“We are best suited to understand and respond to the needs to our neighbours. It also strengthens a neighbourhood to come through for each other in times of need.”
WATCH: Residents in NDG are banding together after the intense storm that ripped through parts of Quebec. Global News Montreal Senior Anchor Jamie Orchard speaks to borough mayor Russell Copeman to talk about what the next step is.
The post received lots of comments from residents both looking for help and those eager to lend a hand.
“I felt touched and lucky that this perfect stranger who doesn’t know me, nor the kind of food I might bring over, offered to reach out,” Christine Quintal told Global News.
“The solidarity has a calming effect. The power of a group gives good vibes, good courage and a sense of power too.”
READ MORE: Fire officials ask people in NDG to stay away from areas damaged by powerful storm
Neighbours not only opened their homes, but also their freezers and fridges.
“One woman was looking to store her frozen breast milk,” Berger said.
Berger said she was excited to see her post helping others, and says she’s fortunate to live in a place surrounded by so many helpful people.
“It’s a friendly, very supportive neighbourhood. We’re all really lucky to live in this community,” she said.
The neighbours included in the Facebook thread weren’t the only ones willing to help.
The NDG YMCA announced it will be opening its doors for people to use its showers.
READ MORE: Power outages, fallen trees after intense storm hits Montreal
Hydro-Quebec says the majority of customers should have their power restored by the end of the day, but the utility company warn it could take longer than expected.
READ MORE: Clean-up underway after severe storm, heavy winds rip through Montreal
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