ATLANTA — Brian Miller is a born and raised Atlanta resident. He lives about half a mile from the Reserve at Lavista Walk apartment complex, which caught fire Friday night.
"It smelled like a campground out here because of the air was just filled," Miller said, recalling the smell of smoke.
Miller immediately knew he wanted and needed to help however he could.
"I can try to be a first responder to help people because I understand the emotions of losing everything and having all your stuff in the front yard or burned up and your kids hungry," Miller said.
Miller owns a remediation business, Act of Valor LLC. He said he's worked as a catastrophe adjuster for ten years, so he’s used to responding to disasters. That's why he immediately decided to start collecting donations.
On Wednesday, bags and boxes filled with food, clothes, shoes, blankets, and more sat in his living room.
These are just some of the physical items veterans knew would be needed. As for the intangible, he wanted to also deliver some hope.
"I've been paralyzed before from the military, and I know how it feels when you feel like there is no hope and you feel hopeless," he said.
Miller started posting about his efforts on NextDoor. He said he never expected to see this level of generosity for and from complete strangers.
"No, not at all," Miller said in disbelief. "It's been a joyful feeling to see the community come together with love and wanting to help."
Miller said the donations keep coming in, adding, "It's good to be a part of something positive."
Miller said if people want to donate, they can send him a message on his website.