CINCINNATI — For people living in Whitewater Township, the evacuation came as a surprise.

Through the safety concerns and inconveniences, some are finding that it’s brought them together in more ways than one, and sometimes it just takes a hot cup of coffee.

What You Need To Know

  • The Whitewater Community Center is serving as a resource center and place for community members to come together

  • Many people, like 64-year-old Arthur Pelcher, slept in their car following the evacuation order

  • Residents say the community is close and takes care of one another

“I got a sleeping bag in the back so that came in handy,” said Arthur Pelcher as he opened his car.

The 64-year-old Marine Corps veteran spent the night in his car following the evacuation orders Tuesday night. Orders remained in place Wednesday after officials discovered a dangerous chemical leak from a railcar.

“See that! It goes all the way back, but I tell you what, it was rough,” said Pelcher as he reclined the front seat.

Sleeping in his car is a new part of his story.

“I had blood pressure medicine up there. It’s still there. I got chickens that are out! Hopefully, they’re ok. That’s what gets me more than anything. I hope the foxes and coyotes didn’t get to them. We’re not used to this! We’re a county town. So this is the first time we all had to clear out. Closed down our companies. I can’t even go to work this morning now,” Pelcher said.

He’s got a lot on his mind, but first things first.

“It’s good to be alive though, but heck! I just hope they’ve got coffee in there,” he said as he turned to walk inside the Whitewater Community Center.

Inside the center, 78-year-old Carolyn Gillespie helps the facility run smoothly and for now she offers a listening ear.

“Coffee and donuts, because I’m telling you I slept in my vehicle all night long. I just need something to pump me up,” laughed Pelcher as he stepped inside.

By the time he shares his story with Gillespie and they walk a few feet, a sudden realization brings an embrace that follows them all the way to the coffee.

“I deliver her bottle gas. As soon as I came in, I recognized her. I knew Ms. Gillespie,” Pelcher said.

The center might be the last place they thought they’d run into each other.

“Right now people are coming to help each other,” Gillespie said.

For Pelcher, while there are still numerous unknowns, there’s one thing he’s certain of.

“There’s nothing but love and that’s how it is," he said. "This is how this community is."

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