Local Hotels Offer Free Lodging to First Responders Battling Harsh Weather
The winter storm of early 2025 hit Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati. During this time, three hotels stepped up to show their gratitude. They appreciated those who dedicate their lives to public safety. The Hampton Inn & Suites in Newport offered first responders a warm place to sleep. Hampton Inn & Suites Cincinnati West in Green Township also provided accommodations. Additionally, Tru by Hilton in Sharonville gave them shelter. These hotels provided hot meals. They offered a much-needed break from their demanding shifts.
“So they’re out there working 24 hours to help us, it’s just showing some compassion during such a stressful time,” said Heidi Smith, General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites Newport.
This tradition, spearheaded by hotel owner Shaun Pan, has been a longstanding commitment. Every year, when severe winter weather hits, Pan ensures first responders have access to free lodging.
“We had a police officer come in here who was on the clock for 24 hours and he only got like five or six hours of sleep, so he was just grateful for the shower and the warm bed to sleep in,” Pan explained.
The generosity did not go unnoticed. Newport Police Capt. Paul Kunkel praised the initiative, stating, “Hampton Inn owner Shaun Pan demonstrates strong community support in Newport by offering free accommodations to first responders during extreme weather. This initiative highlights their commitment to local law enforcement and fosters a close bond with the community, emphasizing a shared dedication to public service.”
First responders battled the cold and exhaustion. These hotels provided more than just shelter. They offered a moment of relief and gratitude.
“It’s stressful on a regular day,” Smith remarked. “I think some of them said they were coming off 24-hour shifts.”
After tirelessly working in dangerous conditions, even a few hours of rest made a difference.
“Some of them were going and coming just for four or five hours just to get some sleep and going right back out,” Smith said.
Despite their exhaustion, first responders never forgot to show appreciation.
“You just appreciate it more that they can come in and work so hard and help so many people and be exhausted, but still come in and smiled and ask how my day was,” Smith shared.
The commitment of these hotels to support first responders exemplifies the true spirit of community. Their doors remained open as long as these heroes needed them. This reinforces that acts of kindness, no matter how simple, can make a lasting impact.
“They’re troopers,” said Smith.
Source:
- https://youtu.be/Dx5SuKln5xw?si=ubfCXHldjpZpRsUf
- https://www.fox19.com/2025/01/08/tri-state-hotels-offer-free-stays-first-responders-amid-winter-weather/
- https://www.wcpo.com/news/northern-kentucky/they-could-take-a-breath-northern-kentucky-hotels-offer-free-stays-to-first-responders-during-winter-storm
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://app.pictory.ai/
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