The State of Recovery Efforts
Nearly a month ago, our community was hit by a fierce tornado that damaged property throughout the Mid-Missouri area. Shortly afterwards, our area began to experience severe flooding, which not only closed roads, but threatened people’s homes and businesses.
While our community has faced its challenges over the past month, it’s important to remember that this is our community. That means we come together when times get tough to help one another. After all, it’s what neighbors are for.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve seen an outpouring of generosity from our community and the surrounding areas. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, hundreds of volunteers came together to help clean up debris and assist with recovery efforts. As many of us know, the effects of natural disasters can last far beyond the initial storm, and even now, our community continues to work to help those impacted get back on their feet. Just recently, the California Women’s Business Council raised $20,422 to help those in need. Likewise, Mid-Missouri schools, like Cole County R-5 Eugene School District and others, have been helping families in need by collecting supplies and financial donations.
Many of us have seen the #JCStrong T-shirts, which raised upwards of $27,000 to help the Red Cross and its recovery efforts. The words printed on those T-shirts are more than just a hashtag, but a motto that our community will persevere in the face of hardship. For example, several of the businesses affected by the tornado are either already open or planning to reopen in the coming months. This shows resilience and Missouri business owners’ continued commitment to serving the community.
As we continue to assess the true effects of the tornado and the subsequent flooding, we are reminded of the awesome power of Mother Nature. But, at times like these, we are also reminded of the awesome power of community.
Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.