Two months after a devastating tornado severely damaged Valley View, residents gathered in Denton to support the town’s recovery efforts.
The event took place at Andersons Eatery and Distillery, where live music, drinks, and cookout food created a festive atmosphere.
“It’s truly moving,” said Pandy Turner. “Today gives Valley View hope and a sense of renewal.”
Turner, who raised her daughter in Valley View, received a call on May 25 that her daughter had survived the tornado, which killed seven people and destroyed 200 homes and buildings.
“When my daughter sent me a video of the tornado, I quickly shared it with Sandy, and within 10 minutes, we were organizing this event with Love for Kids, Huffines, and Action Insurance,” Turner said.
Sandy Huffman, President of Love for Kids, expressed the emotional impact of the event. “It’s incredibly heartwarming to be a part of this,” she said.
The event was organized in response to the overwhelming need highlighted by initial donations. “It’s heartbreaking to see the devastation,” Huffman noted. “They’ve lost everything, including basic necessities.”
Coordinator Jenifer Littrell, representing Huffines, emphasized the essential items needed: “They require basics like beans, rice, diapers, and materials for home repairs, such as boards and trash bags.”
Proceeds from ticket and raffle sales on Saturday will be used to support Valley View, along with additional financial and physical donations. “We’re committed to helping them not just at this event but in the long term,” Littrell said.
Donations can be made at any Huffines Auto Dealership. Needed items include blankets, ceiling fans, cookware, dishes, electric fans, gift cards, soap, towels, utensils, water, Gatorade, diapers, wipes, laundry soap, dish soap, cleaning wipes, flour, sugar, beans, rice, and debris removal supplies.
