CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) — Charleston residents are beginning the long recovery process after an aggressive storm ripped through the area Wednesday night. The community has stepped up, providing food, water and other essentials for those impacted by the storms.
"There's probably a lot of people who are feeling defeated right now and don't know their next move. It's important that they're reaching out for that help and guidance," said Papa John's supervisor and volunteer Adrianna Bryant.
This community initiative was organized in less than 24 hours. Outside of Eastern Illinois University's Fine Arts Building, volunteers spent the day offering a shoulder to lean on. Organizers said making sure families had food and water was an immediate priority.
"Since about noon, we've had more than 1,000 people drive through and pick up food here, as well as at our other location on the north side," City Councilman Dennis Malack said.
This was an all-hands-on-deck mission. Residents and businesses across the community donated goods.
"We're very big on family and community. We definitely want to support any way we can," Bryant said.
From hot meals to diapers for children, volunteers said every little bit counts.
"I'm honored to be able to live here among these wonderful people who have come out and are doing what they could for their fellow community members. We know that we all stand stronger when we're together," Malack said.
Volunteers will continue distributing essentials at the Eastern Illinois University Doudna Fine Arts Center and Northside Baptist Church from noon to 6 p.m. Friday. For those without transportation, organizers will deliver goods directly to residents.
People can reach out to Malack for more information at 217-549-3352.
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