The March 10 tornado that struck Lake Village, Indiana stayed on the ground for miles, carving a long path through parts of Indiana and Illinois and leaving a lasting mark on the region. The strength and resilience of the farming communities across IL and IN have been incredible to witness, and we’re grateful we could volunteer alongside so many others who showed up ready to help. It’s that shared spirit of support and connection that truly defines these communities, even in the face of something so destructive.

The recent tornado in Michigan was an incredibly rare event—both for its strength and how early in the season it occurred—something most communities may never experience. We were so grateful for the opportunity to help and it was truly inspiring to see volunteers step up, offering their time and support to help those affected. In the wake of such an unusual disaster, the generosity and care people show is what leaves a lasting impact.

An inch of frozen rain caused the worst ice storm damage Mississippi and Tennessee have seen in decades, as trees and power lines fell everywhere. Right after the storm, arctic air rolled in, dropping temperatures into the single digits and teens across Tennessee and northern Mississippi for over a week and making it difficult to simply drive around and get to those in need. Our main focus has been removing trees from people’s driveways, yards, and roofs to help clear the way to recovery.

The path of Hurricane Helene reached an astonishing 500 miles north of the gulf coast, traveling through North Carolina creating a disaster zone unlike we have never seen before.   The flooding swept away homes, roads, trees and anything in its path leaving behind devastated small mountain communities.   The people we’ve met and are helping are so grateful and hard working and would give you the shirts off their back.   

The cleanup has begun in the tight knit community of Moss Point Mississippi where an EF-2 Tornado left many homes and businesses damaged. Thankfully and miraculously there were no fatalities and only a few injuries. 

A widespread and deadly tornado outbreak, described as historic, occurred from March 31 – April 1, 2023. In total there were 226 tornado warnings issued. At certain points of the outbreak, over 20 simultaneous tornado warnings were active. The Team is focusing their efforts on serving in Tennessee and Arkansas. Along the way we are finding some of the most hard working and kindest communities. Each day progress is made, bringing everyone closer to restoring what was lost.

When 28 different tornadoes touched down in Alabama the team responded to multiple communities including Selma. Alabama is full of hard working communities that truly care about their neighbors in need and it was an honor to join their efforts to clear debris and find personal belongings in the rubble. Some hard work and love goes a long way in helping families get back on their feet.