Tornado Recovery Update

Posted by Nancy Ghirla On January 18, 2016 0 Comment

January 13, 2016

So far the area has not been declared a disaster in the aftermath of the tornado of December 26 on a federal level. A disaster has been declared on the county and state levels, but there is a 30 day window following the event for FEMA to get involved.

In the meantime, Rowlett began its cleanup of debris with its own equipment and Garland has begun the massive task after retaining a private contractor with a FEMA connection.

Firefighters at Station 5 located on Lyons Road and on the fringe of the most heavily damaged area in southeast Garland, has assisted tornado victims with a wide range of supplies and services. Led by firefighter David Riggs, the men on A shift constructed bulletin boards with materials donated by Home Depot. Since the hardest hit area is without electricity and in many cases any other means of communication, the bulletin boards are intended to allow area residents to post items found, supplies needed, etc.

Also located on Lyons Road is the Living Hope Baptist Church. Twin brothers lead the small congregation as pastor and assistant pastor. Pastor Troy and Assistant Pastor Eric De Feo did a spectacular job of accumulating

essential cleanup items while providing food and clothing for those in need through their Joseph’s House. The Texas Baptist Men’s organization was housed at the church and served meals to volunteers and anyone in need of a good meal.

It will be months before all the debris is hauled away and some semblance of order is restored in the path of destruction. Some churches have stockpiles of donated items such as clothing, blankets and baby diapers and other infant needs, while many others are still in need of those items. Life Message at 4501 Rowlett Rd has food and clothing for those in need on an ongoing basis.

The number of homes affected by the tornado remains uncertain, as reports vary. The number of fatalities, however remains at 12, with 3 in Ellis county, and 9 in Garland. The fatalities in Garland occurred as a result of vehicles being thrown off I30 near the 190 interchange. The outpouring of generosity by citizens of these afflicted communities has been overwhelming. Our area may possess flaws, but the hearts of our citizens have shown themselves to be impressively kind and benevolent.