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On April 26, nineteen EF-2 and EF-3 tornadoes tore through Nebraska leaving a trail of destruction in many communities. Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response had been asked by Rev. Ross Johnson, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Director of Disaster Response, to provide chainsaw and debris removal assistance with heavy equipment in communities around Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church in Omaha, Nebraska, with Mick Onnen, Nebraska District Disaster Response Coordinator. The Northern Illinois District volunteer deployment to Nebraska has ended. We were able to serve 32 homeowners with chainsaws, lifts, and heavy equipment, as well as give some blessing buckets and gift cards from local churches. Deaconess Kathy O'Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response (DR), and LCC DR Equipment Manager Jamie Miller, along with 27 Northern Illinois District Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) chainsaw volunteers, served from April 29 through May 10 with volunteers from several other districts.
Serving Overwhelmed Homeowners with Significant Property Damage Mr. and Mrs. H. rode out the storm in their home and found themselves facing significant damage to their property. The sound of their roof being torn off and trees snapping filled their home with fear and uncertainty. Their barn, crucial for their livelihood as they raised pigs and chickens, was completely destroyed in a matter of seconds. Feeling overwhelmed by the devastation and unsure of how to begin the cleanup process, they were grateful for the support of their fellow Lutherans who came to their aid. They not only received practical help in cleaning up the debris but also experienced the comforting presence of Christ's love within their community.
 Clearing 35 Storm-Damaged Trees from Homeowner's Property
Powerful Testimonials from Property Owners One of LCC's final work sites was at the home and ranch of Mr. and Mrs. McG. Despite minimal damage to their home, the devastation to their horse stables and barn, along with the multiple downed trees on their property, left them feeling overwhelmed. However, the team's swift and efficient work in making their property safe brought them a newfound sense of hope and relief. Mrs. McG. stated, “All week we have felt overwhelmed and at a loss, but in one day, you have given us hope and lifted our burden.” She gave the team several hugs and thanks for assisting and caring for them during their time of need.
Mr. and Mrs. G. lost their home and had their wooded property severely damaged by the tornado. Despite the loss and damage they faced, Mrs. G. took the time to express her sincere gratitude in a thank you note sent to us for the assistance they received, and the mercy and compassion shown to them. “Thank you so much for coming and serving! We could not feel more uplifted and cared for during this whole ordeal. It was truly an honor to meet you and your team. We came home last night and we will head back for Mother’s Day weekend to get more things arranged. Take care! We are truly thankful for people like you!”
Mick Onnen, the Nebraska District Disaster Response Coordinator, sent a message of gratitude expressing his thanks to all those who served and supported the disaster response efforts in the district. “On behalf of the Nebraska District LCMS and LERT members, I'd like to extend heartfelt thanks to each of you for your hard work and dedicated service to the Omaha area residents in the aftermath of the recent tornadoes. I am humbled to see your faith and compassion in action for the hurting folks in the Omaha area. We heard so many sincere words of thanks from those we served. They really appreciated your work and the help you provided. As the DDRC, I extend thanks to each of the daily leaders - without you things would not have run smoothly. And to each of you, a big hug for your part in serving our community. May God bless you all as you continue to serve where He leads.” Lutheran Church Charities thanks the following LERT volunteers for their willingness to serve: Illinois Alleluia, Naperville - Ann Quigley, Rachel Rogers Good Shepherd, Elgin - David Vollrath Immanuel, DeKalb - Pete Springmire Immanuel, Dundee - Carl Fischer, Matt Flynn, Terry and Denise Fuelling, Doug and Kelley Hoyt, Al Navarro Immanuel, Shobonier - Fran Collier Lord of Life, Elburn - Mark Holstein, Kevin Krage, Terry and Mary Kramer, Vince Miller, Larry Zagorski Prince of Peace, Palatine - Jim Beckley St. John, Wheaton - Marty Johnson Wisconsin St. Paul's, Janesville - Lark Sanders Prince of Peace, Menomonee Falls - Roger Kautz St. Paul, Grafton - Mark and Beverly Brueggemann  The destruction and trauma experienced by many residents is widespread, but the spirit of community and faith has provided much-needed hope, encouragement, and help in beginning the long recovery process. It has been a blessing to listen to the survivors' stories and offer a word of encouragement and prayer as we served those in need. Lutheran Church Charities thanks our generous donors and volunteers for their willingness to serve. Thank you for your faithful prayers and support for all of the communities affected by the catastrophic tornadoes and those responding to assist. Thanks to You, We Were Able to BE THERE!
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