In the wake of the EF-1 tornado on July 27, which caused noticeable damage in Hazel Crest, a collaborative effort unfolded on Friday. Students and volunteers from Hazel Crest Elementary District 152 ½ gathered at Jesse White Learning Academy to offer support and meals to those devastated by the event.
Dean Barnett, school board President, stated, “We put the call out on Facebook, and people have responded in large numbers.” The tornado’s impact was felt in other areas, including Homewood, Country Club Hills, Harvey, and Glenwood. However, some of the worst damage occurred in Hazel Crest, where high winds stripped multiple roofs.
The tornado’s unusual looping path resulted in Hazel Crest being hit twice. According to the National Weather Service, the tornado crossed its track near Jesse White Learning Academy. Barnett described the scene as “utter devastation,” evident in the fallen trees, roof tarps, and ongoing power outages that initially displaced residents.
Superintendent Cynthia Levy highlighted the housing struggles faced by some residents from Hazel Crest relocated to Sauk Village. While the restoration of electricity provided some relief, the destruction remained evident. Levy noted the area as hazardous since local students typically walk to school.
The district prioritized engagement with economically disadvantaged families, as around 99% of students participate in free or reduced lunch programs. Volunteers, familiar with supporting needy families during Thanksgiving turkey distributions, prepared over 500 meals. The food included hamburgers, hot dogs, and roast chicken for families.
In addition to meals, distributions included toiletries and paper towels. With the power outage spoiling food, demand was high by the 5 p.m. handout time. Volunteers also arranged to deliver meals directly to homebound seniors. “We have a list of people we’re going to drop food off to,” Levy said.
Barnett reflected on bringing positive energy to a community exhausted by the storm. One resident, Misha Roberts, detailed tornado damage to her home and the loss of her refrigerated food. “A falling tree took out the swing,” she said, unsure of the repair timeline.
Contributing to the relief efforts were district students, including Ava Ward, a 13-year-old eighth grader. “It makes me feel really good,” Ward said. The initiative originated from school board vice president Kimberly Chalmers, who was touched by the overwhelming community response.
Like many locals, Chalmers experienced power loss and some refrigerator spoilage, but emphasized collective recovery. “The future has to be bright,” she said. “We’re going to get there, with all of us working together.”
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