Federal Emergency Management Agency

Thousands Run for Tornado Relief in Rowlett

Organizers estimate about 2500 people took part in a race Saturday to help tornado victims in Rowlett.

The Rebuild Rowlett 5K drew in neighbors from across the community and from neighboring towns Saturday morning.

Proceeds from the run/walk went to a special fund set up by the Rowlett Chamber of Commerce to help local victims of the EF-4 tornado that hit the city the day after Christmas; the race taking place exactly 3 months to the day later.

Organizers said they set up the fund after FEMA announced they would not provide individual assistance to victims.

In the race crowd Saturday, many participants said they know people personally effected by the storms and thought the run would be a good way to help.

The neighborhoods hit hardest by the storms were still covered with debris that morning. Some homeowners have started the rebuilding process, but many others still said they’re working to figure out how to afford the repairs.

The city reports 1145 homes and businesses were damaged in the storm with 23 injuries in town.

Runners paid $25-35 for their spot in the race with the money going to that cause. Some runners elsewhere ran a virtual race on their own time; also benefiting those tornado victims.

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