Local Orthodox Jews host families seeking shelter from Hurricane Matthew

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Metro Atlanta Orthodox Jews have opened their doors to members of their faith seeking shelter from Hurricane Matthew.

With Hurricane Matthew skirting the Florida coast, Todd and Naomi Cohn were scared the lethal storm could cause devastating damage to their Palm Beach home.

"The last thing we said is that 'this might be our last time we see our house,'" Todd Cohn said.

The Cohn family packed up and hit the road Thursday. They drove 13 hours and ended up in North Druid Hills at the home of Daniel and Rachel Wasserman.

"Hospitality is a core principle of our community," Daniel Wasserman said.

The Wassermans and Cohns are complete strangers, but they are united by their beliefs as Orthodox Jews.

"We're very blessed to have the space to house people," Rachel Wasserman said.

The Wassermans say they're happy to help, because they know tragedy.

Daniel Wasserman's parents lost their home during Hurricane Katrina.

The Cohns say they are grateful for the Wassermans' generosity.

Cox Media Group