“This is what bringing a smile back to the community looks like,” said Luis Jimenez, a Valley View resident.
VALLEY VIEW, Texas — This Memorial Day is unlike any other. The loading and unloading of supplies at the John Fortenberry Community Center is a clear example of unity.
“This is awesome, to be honest. From losing almost everything to at least having some food for my kids,” said Luis Jimenez, Valley View resident.
Jimenez said his whole roof was torn off his home after a deadly EF2 tornado ripped through the City of Valley View late Saturday night.
At least seven people have been confirmed dead including four children and three adults.
“Thank God I’m still alive. My family is still standing. I’m still standing,” said Jimenez.
They continue to stand with an entire community holding them up too.
“This community blows me away,” said Pamela Wiebe, Christian Gathering Church of Valley View Pastor.
The food they collected was initially for their annual Memorial Day event. It is now being donated to volunteers and families impacted by the storm. With the help of other community members, they have also been preparing meals.
“I always look for the helpers, and we don’t have to look very far. The helpers are here,” said Wiebe. “You may not have any money to give but you have you.”
“I think it brings people closer too. You know? They could be strangers and you meet somebody for the first time. Friendship develops out of this,” said a volunteer at the community center.
On a day set to honor those who sacrificed and have gone before us, this Memorial Day is also a salute to these heroes still here.
“This is what bringing a smile back to the community looks like. This is hope,” said Jimenez.
Volunteers at the community center told WFAA they are in need of more tarps for family homes.
If you would like to donate to those impacted by the tornado, click here.