Road to Rebuilding: How You Can Get Involved and Help Our Neighbors

The City's first responders rushed to the scene ready for recovery efforts after an EF-3 level tornado touched down in the northern part of the city on Sunday, April 30. City staff and VBCERT immediately began assisting impacted residents, from providing support at the Impact Center, clearing streets of debris and downed trees and canvassing informational flyers with helpful resources.

"This recovery process will take months," said Public Works Director LJ Hansen, who has experienced four tornado cleanups in his career to date. "We are still working to get streets cleared of the debris and this will take several days. We are asking that residents have compassion for their neighbors and patience with City workers. We are working as quickly, efficiently, and methodically as we can to put this neighborhood back together."

The community has stepped up to let us know they want to get involved. From donations to helping with cleanup efforts, people are at the ready to assist.

The City is working with VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads to coordinate the necessary volunteers needed. It is important that people do not self-deploy until they are contacted and given instructions. Until a need has been identified and the local community impacted has requested support, volunteers should not enter without being asked to do so.

If you’re looking to support recovery and rebuilding efforts, register at volunteerhr.org/vbtornado. Be sure to fill out a complete profile so VOLUNTEER HR can properly contact you when needed.