FDS to help build home in Joplin, Missouri

October 15, 2011

Posted in: Work Week

On Sunday, May 20, 2011, an E5 tornado steamrolled over Joplin, Missouri. It knocked out a hospital and caused many deaths across the city while leaving thousands homeless.

The death toll from the tornado that ripped through Joplin soared to 116 on Monday, tying it for the single deadliest twister to ever hit American soil since the National Weather Service began keeping records 61 years ago.

Friends Disaster Service will be helping one family rebuild their home. James Edwards was and the children were not home at the time the tornado hit, but his fiancée was and was trapped under the debris of their house. She was not seriously injured, which was a miracle, but their home was a total loss. Between them they have 5 children, one son Ian (13) and four daughters Lindsey (14), Maddie (13), Shaya (12) and Shelby (9). James is also the son of Bill “Cooter” Edwards who is a long-time FDS volunteer.

We are going to help rebuild their home. We have set the first two weeks in November to start the project, October 31-November 12, 2011. We will be staying at the Riverton Friends Church at 6484 SE 70^th St., Riverton, Kansas 66770. Phone at the church is 620.848.4077. Contact Bill Edwards for any information needed about accommodations at 620.762.0781.

Volunteers are needed to help with this project. All you need to bring air mattresses, bedding, toiletries and towels. Food will be provided.

For further information contact Tom Hoke at 281.808.7393 or email at fdsta@comcast.net. We need a head count ASAP.