Our hearts go out to those who lost their property or worse, their loved ones, as a result of the tornadoes on April 9. Photos taken from the air show familiar devastation, reminiscent of the disaster that befell Washington, Ill. in November 2013. The scale may be smaller in Fairdale and the Rochelle area, but for those who call the tornado-stricken areas home, it is no less devastating.
It is easy to feel powerless in the face of such tragedy. Sadly, we were all powerless to stop the storm that cut a path across northern Illinois, moving from the Dixon area northeast to Fairdale and Kirkland.
But today is a new day, and although the damage cannot be undone, we are not helpless. Helping, in whatever way we can, is something all of us can do.
Already there have been drives to collect gift cards and cleaning supplies for those in need. People also can help by donating to relief agencies such as the Red Cross and Salvation Army. No doubt there will be a cleanup effort ahead, although it is too soon for such an undertaking because the area remains dangerous, authorities said.
It is important to help in ways that are appropriate and needed. The outpouring of community generosity led officials to notify the public that rescue workers had no further need for supplies or perishable food items on April 10, although they may well need them in the future.
Still, we hope that the outpouring of support can show those who have been through this tragedy that they are not alone. Our community – in DeKalb County and beyond – wants to help. The kindness of strangers is small recompense for the losses that many have suffered. Forces of nature cannot be stopped, and tornadoes are a possibility anywhere in DeKalb County. But now that tragedy has struck, we can help our neighbors. After all, it is what any of us would hope for if tragedy were to befall us.
