ESSEX COUNTY, Va. -- One day after an EF-3 tornado, with speeds of 140 mph, ripped through an Essex county neighborhood, the Tappahannock community has come together to help donate water, food, and clothes.
The town was hit hard with at least 30 structures were damaged and 15 completely destroyed.
A donation center at the old Southern States, at 1616 Tappahannock Blvd, is the hub of activity. Donors have steadily streamed in dropping off supplies for those affected.
But their biggest need isn’t what you may think it is.
“They're doing a lot of cutting trees so we actually need chainsaw blades,” said Pastor Larry Schools. “Eighteen to 20 inches for still chainsaws.”
Schools said they need nonperishable canned foods and water too.
The heartbreak in Essex and the town of Tappahannock isn't keeping people like Anne Davis from lending a hand to help fellow neighbors.
“Whatever I could do to help. I checked in with first responders and then got information on Facebook. That's how I knew to come here.”
Even strangers who live outside the area couldn't resist the tug on their heartstrings.
“These people, you can see how they are coming together,” said Alan Walker. “I felt like I had to do something.”
If you would like to help donate
A command center has been established at the old Southern States, at 1616 Tappahannock Blvd. Residents are in need of nonperishable items, household items, clothing, feminine products, diapers, and water.
A person will be there to receive items daily, until around 5 p.m.
Monetary donations are being accepted through the American Red Cross, just specify Essex County Tornado.
If you would like more information about how to donate to other areas hit by Wednesday’s storms and tornadoes click here.
