In the wake of the destruction caused by the EF-1 tornado that hit Hazel Crest on July 27, students and volunteers from Hazel Crest Elementary District 152 ½ gathered at Jesse White Learning Academy to provide aid to those affected. School board President Dean Barnett announced that the community had responded well to a call for assistance made through Facebook. ‘We aim to give back whenever possible, especially since this area was deeply affected,’ Barnett stated.
The tornado, which also struck Homewood, Country Club Hills, Harvey, and Glenwood, caused severe damage in Hazel Crest, tearing roofs off buildings. Its unusual path resulted in Hazel Crest being struck twice, with the tornado crossing its initial track near Jesse White Learning Academy, as reported by the National Weather Service.
Barnett described the devastation as tragic, with streets still lined with fallen trees and tarps covering roof damage. The power outage following the storm displaced some residents while power restoration last Friday brought slight relief, according to Superintendent Cynthia Levy. ‘Many people were forced to relocate to areas like Sauk Village,’ she explained, highlighting the need for housing.
Levy emphasized the vulnerability of the community, noting that the majority of district students walk to school. ‘The damage poses a real hazard,’ she said. Staff and volunteers, used to supporting families, rallied to provide assistance as they often do during Thanksgiving by distributing food.
On that Friday, volunteers prepared over 500 meals, consisting of hamburgers, hot dogs, and roasted chickens. They also distributed essential items like toiletries and paper towels. ‘People lost food due to the power outage,’ Levy noted, with dozens lining up to receive aid by 5 p.m. Additionally, meals were delivered to seniors unable to leave their homes. ‘We have a list for door-to-door food delivery,’ she added.
Barnett expressed hope that the event would inject positivity into a community enduring hardship. ‘People faced electricity and food challenges, so our outreach aimed to bring positive energy,’ he said.
Misha Roberts, whose son attends Jesse White, shared her experience, detailing damages to her home and the loss of perishable food. ‘The repair timeline is uncertain—it could take weeks or months,’ she remarked.
Among the volunteers were numerous students from the district, including 13-year-old Ava Ward. ‘I’m glad to help; it makes me feel good,’ Ava said.
The initiative, orchestrated by school board Vice President Kimberly Chalmers, drew overwhelming support. Chalmers, who also endured power loss and roof damage, expressed gratitude. ‘Recovery is challenging, but with collective effort, the future is promising,’ she declared.