LEXINGTON, Ky. — According to London mayor Randall Weddle, 800 homes were affected by the tornado that hit southeast Kentucky communities.

What You Need To Know

  • Jackson County Public Schools staff are volunteering at the London-Corbin airport

  • At least 800 homes were affected and 19 people died after an EF4 tornado hit southeast Kentucky

  • Volunteers are organizing and delivering donations to storm victims

  • Distribution services have now transitioned to 1480 South Main Street in London

Schools across Kentucky have started summer break, including Jackson County Public Schools, but for staff’s first day off, they are giving back to their neighbors in London. 

Around 40 staff members joined leaders at the London-Corbin Airport. Kentucky state representative and McKee elementary school principal Timmy Truett is leading the charge. 

Truett said despite being about an hour away, people in their city had families who were affected. 

“I was here a couple of weeks ago and I drove them around this morning just to kind of see the aftermath. I was amazed at how much cleanup had already taken place. It’s now mostly done by volunteers,” Truett said. 

Previously, the airport, that was destroyed by the EF4 tornado, was used for a donation drop-off and distribution site. Distribution services have now transitioned to 1480 South Main Street in London.  

“It’s like a Donation store. So the people that it’s affected by the area of the tornado, they could come here. We could get all the supplies that they need from house items, rakes, tents, sleeping bags,” said Becky Hatfield, distribution site volunteer.

Hatfield said they moved locations to help with overstock, and organization and to turn this place into a quick pickup and delivery service. 

“Volunteers and LPD will come and deliver to you. You just call the number and they’ll deliver to your home whatever your item is,” Hatfield said. “We’ve got these wonderful volunteers that are gathered all up and we get it for you all, no matter what it is.”

Those still seeking support can call the main distribution site.