Emotions are running high across southwestern Connecticut in Sandy's wake, but some residents are lending a helping hand to their neighbors.

The powerful storm has left people in the dark and out in the cold after damaging homes, causing power outages and gasoline shortages.

Dozens of residents are reaching out on the News 12 Connecticut Facebook page to offer a place to stay and a hot meal to those less fortunate.

Many gyms, like PHYtness 4U in Fairfield, are opening their doors to non-members for a place to take a hot shower, charge up their phones and other mobile devices, enjoy a cup of coffee and just have a place to hang out.