 An elderly couple comfort each other in the midst of tornado destruction in Alabama Adam Dubrowa/FEMA |
New project site in Alabama, changes in Tennessee
Jane Yount
November 30, 2011
A violent tornado outbreak swept through northeastern Alabama on April 27, 2011, leaving a widespread trail of destruction. Known as the “2011 Super Outbreak,” this brutal storm system spawned 336 tornadoes that ripped through 21 states from Texas to New England and claimed 346 lives. The tornado that struck the Arab, Ala. area was rated an EF4 (winds up to 200 mph) and was on the ground for 50 miles. Many homes were swept off their foundations.
Brethren Disaster Ministries has set up a repair and rebuilding project in Arab that became active on November 28, 2011. Volunteer teams are replacing roofs, making repairs, and completely rebuilding homes that were destroyed.
Volunteer housing for this project is in a large converted building in town. The facility has ample space for up to 15 volunteers. Meals are prepared in a fully equipped kitchen and shared in the dining area.
This is BDM’s second response in this small town. The program had served in Arab following a tornado in 1995.
BDM’s flood recovery project in Ashland City, Tenn. is expected to continue at least through March 2012, due to the volume of cases still needing assistance with home repair and rebuilding. Working closely with the Cheatham County Long Term Recovery Committee, BDM is in the process of completing our third new build, plans to take on two more new builds, and has repaired 14 other homes.
BDM began serving the needs of flood-affected residents in Cheatham County in January 2011. To date more than 3,500 volunteer work days have been given by BDM volunteers serving the needs in this area.
Meanwhile, BDM has closed the nearby Brentwood (Bellevue), TN project and has shifted tools and equipment over to the new site in Alabama.
