Summary Stats
The United States sees dozens of tornadoes touch down in multiple states per year. Many have lost their lives, and hundreds of others have been severely impacted by the substantial damage caused by these disasters. GEM BStrong will respond and be on the ground, ensuring multiple states and communities are receiving support and aid during these times of need.
Phase 1: Immediate Response
Tennessee
Catastrophic tornadoes struck several suburban neighborhoods of Nashville on Saturday, resulting in fatalities and numerous injuries. With winds of 150 mph and a path 600 yards wide, tornados swept through Clarksville Montgomery County area. GEM Bstrong has deployed a cargo truck loaded with family necessity kits, children’s toys for Christmas, and tarps to support the individuals and families affected. This aid will then be distributed to those affected in collaboration with Aerial Recovery Group, a long-term partner of GEM familiar with the region.
Texas
In Perryton, Texas a devastating tornado tore through the town, forcing it’s 8000 residents to evacuate. Many homes took a direct hit, causing some residents to pass away or to become severely injured. GEM is on the ground now assisting those displaced and affected by distributing BStrong cash cards, Family Necessity Kits, tarps, water, and more.
Immediately following our mission in Perryton, we moved into Matador and Lubbock to those who had been affected by the tornados in these communities. GEM provided BStrong cash cards and other supplies.
Mississippi
Immediately after the first tornado, GEM BStrong deployed to Rolling Fork, Mississippi, distributing Family Necessity Kits, pet supplies, and other BStrong cash cards. Aid has also been brought to and distributed in Winona and Greenville to displaced residents.
Arkansas
GEM BStrong arrived on the ground in Little Rock. We are meeting with local representatives to better understand the longer-term needs, and will be conducting distributions of aid to displaced residents.
Missouri
Glen Allen and several of its neighbouring communities have just experienced the deadliest tornado since 2011. Many buildings were destroyed and 5 people have unfortunately passed away. GEM held distributions at central churches for these affected communities, as well as door to door distributions in more rural areas. Family necessity kits, Flew the Coops animal boxes, tarps, and water were all brought to those in need.