Owensboro residents reach out to help Nashville tornado victims

March 5, 2020 | 12:09 am

Updated March 5, 2020 | 3:10 pm

Photo by Brian Copeland

As Owensboro native Ally White watched the weather closely on Monday afternoon, she realized the storm heading toward her Nashville home had the potential to be catastrophic. Throughout the night, family and friends looked for updates via social media as she posted about the unfolding weather events.

“Our neighborhood had snapped power lines and trees down,” White said. “Our road was closed. Police were sitting next to our driveway to keep people from hitting the power lines. We didn’t take a direct hit though, so I’m counting my blessings.”

Her home was spared any major damage, but White said the surrounding areas were hit hard. In the aftermath of the tornado, there are many needs to be met by those in the local community who would like to get involved.

“Temporary housing is definitely needed,” she said. “There were also a ton of people trying to find coffee, which may sound odd, but cleaning up takes energy. People need everything; it’s hard to specify much. Anything would be appreciated. Lots of people lost everything. It honestly still feels surreal.”

The Basement East, a live music venue co-owned by Owensboro native Michael Grimes, received significant damage Monday night when the tornado hit their building. Their statement on social media stated, “Our staff is all safe, the building is destroyed, but we will be back.”

They have been diligently working on each show to either relocate or cancel. Their website states they will send updates to ticket holders, post on the website and social media as they determine the status of each show. This process could take a few days to weeks.

“We are overwhelmed with the support and we are truly blessed to be part of this community. We will make an official statement on when we are ready for the helpful clean up offers,” their Facebook page stated.

One Owensboro non-profit, Shepherds Hand has found a way for locals to offer aid to storm victims in Nashville and the surrounding areas. The ministry, which traditionally focuses on providing clothing for children, seniors, veterans, homeless and others in need, works with local schools, churches, nursing homes and homeless shelters.

Shepherds Hand Director Gwen Bennett said the community has the opportunity to join with them as they collect items for the homeless.

“The pastor from ROC Church in Pleasant Ridge contacted Shepherds Hand needing blankets and sleeping bags to take to Nashville. The homeless there apparently lost everything during this disaster,” Bennett said. “What little they had was destroyed.”

Those who would like to donate blankets may drop them off at Good Shepherd Church in Owensboro by Friday. Shepherds Hand will be open 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., for donations.

March 5, 2020 | 12:09 am

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