Washington Residents Hit By Twister Step Up To Help Fairdale Victims
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Residents of an Illinois community devastated by a tornado in November 2013 were coming together Friday to help the victims of Thursday's deadly tornado in Fairdale, Illinois.
When a twister tore through Washington, Illinois, on Nov. 17, 2013, some residents of Fairdale were among the first to offer help. On Friday, it was time for Washington to return the favor.
"What we experienced, how many people came to our rescue and aid, it really … you know, you kind of give back, and the fabric of our community is standing up strong with that, as of last night even ," Washington Mayor Gary Manier said.
Manier knows a thing or two about the generosity of stranger. His town was heavily damaged by a tornado, which damaged or destroyed more than 1,000 homes, and left three people dead.
"America, 99.9 percent of America, is good, good people," he said. "That's what should be on the front page, instead of the crime and things we have to read about, because when disaster strikes home, we're the first ones to respond and help each other, and it's just all being a good neighbor to each other."
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Thursday night, before the extent of the damage in Fairdale was known, Washington resident Jewel Ward – who grew up near Fairdale – had set up a fundraising page for Fairdale on YouCaring.com.
"That will be run through the Kirkland Lions Club," Manier said.
As of 9:15 a.m., more than 45 people had donated a combined total of more than $2,100 to the relief effort.
Meantime, the American Red Cross and Salvation Army were also doing their part, setting up temporary shelters, and helping organize distribution of food, clothing, and other relief supplies.
