On December 10, 2021, a tornado formed, winding and ripping across 200 miles of western Kentucky. At least 74 lives were lost, and the damage is still being calculated.
A fundraiser was sponsored by the Greenbrier County Fire Association, the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department, Greenbrier County 911, and more local law enforcement agencies.
The drive was initially expected for January 7 and 8, but was delayed for consideration of the winter storm advisory. Instead, the fundraiser was held on January 14 and 15.
Local emergency responder Jeff Doss helped organize the drive.
“We want to take care of our brothers and sisters, our first responders, because we know so many of them suffer there,” said Doss. “If there’s a food trailer, for example, for a disaster, first responders are the last ones to get served, because they want to make sure things everybody’s taken care of. … [This fundraiser is for] the point where they’re actually ready and can address their needs, as far as financially, and know what their losses are. Sometimes you don’t even know what your losses are, you’ve got to step back and have to look. … We’re going to find an organization or two, … make sure that this money goes exactly where we want it to go.”
The result is $43,217.29 for the Kentucky emergency responders.
The Ronceverte Fire Department celebrated the announcement on their social media.
“We [were] glad to do our part and help out in this wonderful event that will help our fellow first responders in Kentucky,” reads the post. “Thanks to our members that showed up and donated their time. Special Thanks to Bart [Baker], Jeff [Doss] and everyone else who put the time in to get it organized and are going to continue to follow through with this.”
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