Monson Community Focused On Moving On From Tornado
MONSON (CBS) - The choir sang their loudest. The bagpipes played their best. The congregation sat attentively, ignoring the caution tape in the back and the tarp on the roof.
Although signs of destruction are everywhere in Monson the community is focused forward.
"I'm still a believer in my faith and this is what you do when it gets tough," said Gail Morrissey, whose neighbors house crashed into hers during the tornado.
Pastor Bob Marrone delivered a sermon about how God is evident through the outpouring of support the town is receiving. He also talked to a group of children at the front of the church asking if anyone felt sad.
WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez reports.
"I don't feel sad!" one boy yelled. "I'm fine!"
Laughter followed his comment and it's hard not to smile surrounded by the surprising cheerfulness of those who have been through a devastating tornado.
Also See: Monson Church Holds Service To Pray For Tornado Victims
The church is also the center of relief. Hundreds of volunteers from all over New England are arriving with cars full of donations and hands ready to help.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports from Monson:
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Residents can get three hot meals a day and pick through an endless supply of necessities. A storeroom in the basement is full of items from food to refrigerators.
Gallery: Tornadoes In Massachusetts
Seven-year old Monique Smith came from Palmer and emptied a bag of toys.
"I was thinking about, um, children's houses falling apart and I thought it would be a good idea to give toys and stuff away that I don't use anymore," said Smith. Her 4-year-old brother emptied out his bag of toys right beside her.
The Marine Corps arrived Saturday afternoon to set up distribution centers throughout the town. Volunteers scheduled a training Saturday night so people can start helping in the hardest hit areas.
Donate: The CBS Boston Cares Massachusetts Tornado Relief Fund
One man from Londonderry, New Hampshire rerouted his trip from Joplin to Monson after he learned of the devastation.
"How can you not help?" he said.
Almost every other volunteer asked echoed the same answer.
