Community rallies to help neighbors in need
The response to the devastation was overwhelming, helping us to accomplish much of the initial cleanup within the first few days. City and county leadership, first responders, athletic teams, church groups, neighbors and friends immediately got to work to start cleaning up and preparing our neighborhoods for rebuilding and making sure those affected the most had what they needed.
On Memorial Day, a number of Ohio cities were devastated by tornadoes. In my hometown of Celina, one man lost his life and many lost their homes as storms ripped through the area.
As people emerged from what was left of their homes to assess the damage, many of their thoughts went not to their own situations and damage but to the safety and well-being of their neighbors. The harsh reality of the long road ahead was clear.
Like so many small towns across Ohio, we have had much to celebrate together in Celina. But as that evening and that tragic storm reminded us, the true strength of our communities is always best displayed when times are the toughest.
At times it can seem as though the feeling of pride we have for our community and our sense of duty is limited to only us and our neighbors. On this particular Memorial Day, Ohioans proved that those attributes are shared by so very many as the flow of donations and volunteers from all over the state poured into our neighborhoods to support those in need.
The response to the devastation was overwhelming, helping us to accomplish much of the initial clean-up within the first few days. City and county leadership, first responders, athletic teams, church groups, neighbors and friends immediately got to work to start cleaning up and preparing our neighborhoods for rebuilding and making sure those affected the most had what they needed.
Command posts were established, supplies were donated, meals were distributed, prayers were said and accommodations were made to help ensure everyone had a place to stay and something to eat. The strength of the community was on full display for everyone to see.
These efforts weren’t just displayed in Celina. The strength of our communities and our state are our people and their willingness to help others.
I am blessed that my home and family were spared from the worst of the storms, but we all know someone who was impacted. I continue to be impressed by how much our community showed they care by assisting those who were affected.
While the road ahead will be long, may we all find comfort in knowing the support that surrounds us is unwavering, no matter the obstacles we may face. Ohio, Dayton and Celina are strong.