Princess Anna mode, IRL.
Actress Kristen Bell has been in Orlando, Florida filming a new movie for some time now, and when Hurricane Irma hit the state, she had to step in to help those evacuating and displaced by the storm. Of course, the best way to brighten anyone’s spirits is through her movie “Frozen” and its incredible connection, so she stepped into true Princess Anna mode.
“We didn’t have the option to leave so here we are. Just doing our best and trying to stay positive but cautious, and trying to help those who need help prepping. Every person i passed today was assisting someone else- #neighborshelpingneighbors – it was beautiful to see,” Kristen posted on her Instagram. “Sad that a hurricane has to bring out the best in everyone- but happy that the community will be holding hands through this. Im grateful to Gary and the team at @swandolphin in epcot for helping us feel safe while we get through this together.”
First up, Operation Olaf! Kristen helped her co-star Josh Gad’s family find shelter when they weren’t able to get out of the state, and her good deed wasn’t unnoticed.
“So @kristenanniebell literally saved my parents and my entire family tonight from #hurricaneirma,” Josh posted on Instagram along with a selfie Kristen took with his parents. “When they were stranded in Florida, she got them a hotel room at her hotel in Orlando and saved them, my brothers, my sister-in-law and niece and nephew. They don’t make them like this girl. Thank you Kristin. You are truly an angel sent from above.”
After everyone was out of immediate danger, Kristen visited families who were taking shelter at Meadow Woods Middle School.
She entertained the group by singing some songs, including “For the First Time in Forever.”
“I hope maybe some of these songs are running through your head the rest of the day and will take your mind off [Irma],” Kristen told the audience.
Then, Kristen found out that there were more storm evacuees who needed spirits lifted! “There are a few thousand senior residents who evacuated to our hotel,” she shared. “We are gonna make lemonade outta Irma as best we can.”
“I’m fueling up the only way I know how in order to call a few hours of BINGO!” she added, posting more photos of her dining, singing, and laughing with her new friends.
Kristen’s time with these lovely people involved many warm hugs, great conversations… and even a few spirited wheelchair races through the hallways.
It is so inspiring that Kristen took this opportunity to join people together and make positive memories despite the scary storm.
Plus, her words ring true: it shouldn’t take a huge hurricane to bring people together. There are always ways to reach out to others to brighten their days. But what a beautiful example this is!