The May 16 tornado was indiscriminate in its path of destruction, ripping through communities of many kinds during its 20-mile rampage.
The storm left most of its damage in north St. Louis, home to historic Black neighborhoods and residents who have lived there for generations.
Within hours, African American neighbors, business owners, philanthropists — and even kids with lemonade stands — were mobilizing across the devastated area, driving a swift and unified relief effort and highlighting remarkable compassion by St. Louis’ Black community.
“These devastating and life-altering disasters have affected so many in our community. We are called to do our part to help those in need.”
David L. Steward, World Wide Technology
David L. Steward, founder and chairman of World Wide Technology, and the Steward Family Foundation immediately offered support to tornado relief efforts, including the Herculean response of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.
“We are committed to establishing an Eternal Return on Investment,” Steward said.
“As Jesus told us in Matthew 25:40, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
“These devastating and life-altering disasters have affected so many in our community. We are called to do our part to help those in need.”
Steward and other philanthropists partnered with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Fox Theater to present a benefit concert featuring BeBe Winans on June 29.
The concert, which included the IN UNISON and SLSO Choruses, and a related online donation effort raised $350,000 for the Urban League Disaster Relief Fund.
All funds raised are assisting the Urban League in its ongoing effort to support the most immediate needs of people displaced or impacted in north St. Louis.
A portion of the funds went directly to partner churches damaged by the tornado in the SLSO’s IN UNISON program, which has connected congregations primarily in north St. Louis to the orchestra for more than 30 years.
“While we realize nothing can take the place of a loved one, we pray these donations will help bring comfort to those who have lost so much,” Steward said.
“All who are suffering from the May 16 tornado’s destruction remain in our prayers for the peace and solace only God provides.”
Michael P. McMillan, Urban League president and CEO, witnessed the Black community’s immediate response and willingness to support one another.
“The way the people have mobilized over the past 10 weeks has been amazing,” said McMillan, whose organization has been the anchor of the region’s tornado response effort.
“Every level of African American organization, as well as individuals, have stepped up. Donations have come from the Divine 9 Black Greek organizations, the St. Louis Metro Links, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Jack and Jill, churches, block units and many more groups.
“Right down to kids in city neighborhoods with lemonade stands raising money for relief. It has just been sensational.”
The Urban League held its 10th large-scale food and resources distribution event last Saturday at its North Kingshighway headquarters, three of which were Food Truck Saturdays.
The events have served up to 3,000 people, and back-to-school resource distribution events are planned for August 9 and 16.
“So many people and organizations have been with us, and I can say that the Black community has been supporting us from day one, really hour one after the storm,”McMillan said .
Michelle Tucker, the African American president and CEO of the United Way of Greater St. Louis, said volunteers are crucial during this time.
“Our Volunteer Center continues to be at the forefront of connecting over 5,900 individuals, corporate partners and organizations with meaningful disaster-related service opportunities,” Tucker said.
“And as always, it is so amazing to see how our community unites during challenging times. Shortly after the storm, United Way activated a Storm Relief Fund, and thanks to countless individuals and organizations throughout our communities, United Way has allocated more than $2 million to nonprofits who are on the frontlines of disaster recovery efforts.
“Among the UW support received, record producer Metro Boomin and Rodney Boyd, Nexus Group founder and partner, personally donated and secured additional funding to provide free hot meals to storm victims.”
Tucker said her organization’s 211 team “quickly transitioned into crisis response mode to ensure individuals and families were aware of available shelters, hotel options, and other critical resources.”
United Way 211 connects people to services, from basic needs to childcare to disaster relief to counseling.
“So far, our 211 team has assisted 2,400 storm victims with navigating resources,” Tucker said.
She added that United Way is partnering with the Evolution Festival on Sept. 27-28 in Forest Park to support the storm relief fund.