PRESS RELEASE: Council Member Christian Willauer Honors Parks & Recreation Employees for Extraordinary Service During Winter Storm Emergency Response
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Council Member Christian Willauer Honors Parks & Recreation Employees for Extraordinary Service During Winter Storm Emergency Response
Council Members Coby Owens (1st District) and Christian Willauer (5th District) stand with employees of the City of Wilmington’s Department of Parks and Recreation after receiving their recognition on March 5, 2026, in City Council Chambers. Photo by Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
Wilmington, DE — 5th District Council Member Christian Willauer presented a formal resolution on March 5, 2026, during Wilmington City Council’s Regular meeting honoring the dedicated employees of the City of Wilmington’s Department of Parks and Recreation for their extraordinary service in supporting the city’s most vulnerable residents during this winter’s severe storms.
During back-to-back winter weather events, including Winter Storm Fern in late January and a second major snowstorm in February, Parks and Recreation staff stepped far beyond their traditional roles, transforming the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center into an emergency shelter for the first time in Wilmington’s history.
“This recognition is about more than just responding to a storm. It’s about recognizing the heart and commitment of our City workers,” said Council Member Willauer. “When our community needed them most, Parks and Recreation employees rose to the occasion, turning a recreation center into a place of refuge, dignity, and care.”
From January 24 through January 27, as Winter Storm Fern brought an average of 6.5 inches of precipitation across the City, Parks and Recreation staff mobilized quickly to provide emergency shelter services. Just weeks later, from February 23 through February 24, they responded once again as Wilmington saw between 8 and 9.5 inches of snow.
With little precedent and no hesitation, staff worked tirelessly, beyond their normal duties, to prepare, operate, and maintain the shelter. Their efforts ensured a safe, warm, and welcoming environment for up to 150 individuals in January and nearly 80 individuals in February, who sought refuge from hazardous conditions.
Employees managed intake operations, coordinated logistics, maintained facility cleanliness, and provided compassionate care to every individual who entered the space. Their work demonstrated that Wilmington’s community centers are not just places for recreation, but vital pillars of support during times of crisis.
This life-saving effort was made possible through strong partnerships with the Wilmington Police Department and Friendship House, who assisted in transporting individuals from locations such as Christina Park and The Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew and Matthew to the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center. Together, they ensured that residents experiencing homelessness had access to safety, warmth, and critical resources.
The response was further strengthened by the generosity of Wilmington residents, who donated food, clothing, hygiene items, and other essentials, reflecting the unity and compassion that define the City.
“The actions of these employees embody the very best of public service,” Council Member Willauer added. “They didn’t just do their jobs. They showed up with compassion and a commitment to the people of Wilmington.”
The resolution, adopted by Wilmington City Council, formally recognizes the Parks and Recreation employees for their outstanding achievement and service, concluding with a heartfelt message of appreciation: “Job well done.”
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MEDIA CONTACT:Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications, Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Mobile: (302)757-5748Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.govCity Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com