Texans on Mission wrapped up work in Mineral Wells and Runaway Bay and will continue work in Springtown after severe thunderstorms wrecked homes, destroyed buildings, and caused multiple injuries.
All service requests in Mineral Wells were completed May 6, according to Aimee Freston, director of communications for Texans on Mission.
“We had chainsaw and heavy machinery crews [skid steers] in the area working. Our volunteers reported that the community was grateful for the support and appreciative of the work and effort volunteers were putting in,” Freston said.
The National Weather Service confirmed strong supercell thunderstorms in Parker County Saturday, April 25, produced an EF-2 tornado in Runaway Bay, followed by an EF-1 tornado in Springtown.
A couple of days later, officials confirmed an EF-3 tornado touched down in Mineral Wells, tearing open roofs, collapsing walls, and scattering debris.
Making progress
Texans on Mission served 70 meals to families in Runaway Bay.
About 2,000 boxes were distributed to residents to help gather items salvaged from storm wreckage.
In Springtown, chainsaw teams completed seven jobs and continue to work through requests to clear storm debris. Shower and laundry units were set up at an American Red Cross shelter in the area.
The United Way ran out of hygiene kits in Springtown, but Texans on Mission supplied hundreds of additional kits.
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Teams in Mineral Wells received multiple work-order requests for chainsaw crews. Boxes were distributed during cleanup efforts, and additional shower units were sent to serve residents.
Freston confirmed Texans on Mission is continuing its efforts in Springtown.
“Springtown was hit hard by the tornado, and we quickly saw an increase in work requests for the area. There was extensive tree damage, and Texans on Mission chainsaw teams have been in high demand,” Freston said.
“Families have been so welcoming and appreciative of the teams working, and there have been many opportunities to share the gospel and minister to those affected by the storms. One family was so relieved to have damaged trees removed from their yard, so it could once again provide a safe environment for their children to play. We are seeing God at work in Springtown,” Freston said.
Texans on Mission anticipates completing work requests by the end of the week.
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