SHEPHERDSVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — In the midst of heartbreak, hope is finding its way to the people of London, Kentucky.
After a deadly tornado tore through the region—flattening homes and claiming the lives of 19 people—volunteers from across the state are stepping up in extraordinary ways to help total strangers.
“Nothing will humble you more than being in a disaster zone and seeing the wrath and then seeing the hearts of everybody,” said Melissa Mayfield, a volunteer. “I mean, it’s everywhere.”
That spirit of compassion has sparked a massive relief effort centered in Shepherdsville. Volunteers are working tirelessly to collect donations and supplies—everything from cleaning items to clothes, and more than 2,500 pairs of shoes—all destined for the families struggling to pick up the pieces 150 miles away.
“It’s times like this that you see everyone coming together,” said Jenni Grant, another volunteer. “That is just remarkable. To me, that screams community, and it’s these times that I’m proud to say I’m from Shepherdsville.”
The initiative is being coordinated through the Turnaround Resource Center, which has turned into a hub of activity and generosity. Trucks and trailers are being filled to the brim with essential items—cups, paper towels, hygiene products and clothing.
“Knowing that we have a part in putting shoes on somebody’s feet is one of the biggest rewards,” said Jennie Fleming, executive director of the Turnaround Resource Center. “But knowing that God had blessed us with it to do it keeps me going.”
The mission isn’t over. This Saturday, May 24, volunteers will be stationed at the old Frisch’s Big Boy at 157 Keystone Crossroad Dr. in Shepherdsville from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. to collect even more donations.
“We will just take any kind of collection of anything,” Grant added. “Anything being food, water, even used items—gently used, obviously—clothing. These people have lost everything, and they need everything. So nothing is out of the question.”
Every item collected, every hand offered, is a reminder that when disaster strikes, Kentuckians show up—not just with supplies, but with love.
“They’re not just a person or just a case,” Fleming said. “These are our family.”
Mike Smith Firestone, at the corner of 227 State St. and Market Street in downtown New Albany, Indiana, will also serve as a donation station if you can’t make it to Shepherdsville on Saturday. They will accept donations, except clothing, “until they’re not needed.” Evergreen Funeral Home at 4623 Preston Hwy. will also accept donations.
The post To London, with love | Kentucky volunteers mobilize relief for tornado victims first appeared on Voxtrend News.
