On Tuesday evening, a huge storm system passed through central Tennessee, which included a tornado that rumbled in downtown Nashville early in the morning. When the sun rose on Wednesday, it was discovered that at least 24 people lost their lives and several people are still missing.
However, those in the voluntary state live up to their nickname, as many of them have taken free time and daily life to volunteer to clean up their communities and give items to those who have lost their homes. . The Tennessee Titans are also doing their part, as they announced this week that the Titans Foundation and controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk are donating $ 1 million to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. In addition, the NFL Foundation will contribute $ 250,000 to the CFMT and work with local schools to help repair soccer fields and replace equipment.
“Everyone in this community and throughout Tennessee should be forever grateful to the Tennessee Titans for their tremendous efforts in helping the victims of the tornadoes,” said CFMT President Ellen Lehman via the Titans official website. “This is an extraordinary gift for our ability to respond and restore the damage caused by these disastrous storms.”
Nashville Mayor John Cooper says, CFMT received a total of more than $ 2 million in just 36 hours. The CFMT will disperse the donation to non-profit organizations throughout the region that will benefit those who need immediate and long-term assistance.
“We are so encouraged by the number of charities that people showed in the aftermath of the Monday night tragedy,” said Adams Strunk. “As community leaders, we want to help this cause of healing and reconstruction. Together we will help our neighbors through this long and difficult process. We hope others will join us in supporting this effort in every way possible. ” . “
According to CBS News, the majority of the deaths occurred in Putnam County, east of Nashville. County mayor Randy Porter said at a press conference Wednesday that 18 people were killed, including five children under the age of 13. CBS WTVF affiliate reported that the tornado remained on the ground for 80 kilometers and was reinforced by an EF-2 to EF-3 tornado after passing through downtown Nashville. At its peak, winds reached up to 165 miles per hour.
The Titans have also teamed up with Hands on Nashville to encourage volunteer efforts. Titans players, staff and families will be volunteering in Middle Tennessee on Friday March 6. Other volunteering opportunities are available at www.hon.org.
