TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – Three months after two tornadoes went through Panola County many are still trying to recover from the damage.
An East Texas nonprofit called Hand Up Network is trying to ensure that everyone who was impacted by the tornadoes in Panola County is helped out. After getting asked by Panola County Judge LeeAnn Jones to help run the Emergency Operation Center for storm response, the nonprofit has been working for the past three months to stabilize damage and asset homes of all those in need.
“We had over 60 uninsured homes in just Panola County alone. These are people that have had significant damage, some cases total damage, and we now have to go door to door and actually work with each individual homeowner to understand what are the challenges that you are facing,” said Sam Smith the Hand Up Network CEO.
The nonprofit is hoping to help as many people in need in Panola County as possible. They are asking homeowners who are still in need of assistance to call the Hand Up Network at 903-263-3653. According to Hand Up Network Carthage volunteer Keri Perot Vance, Hand Up Network’s constant presence has made organizing assistance easier.
“We have always banded together and that’s one of the greatest things about living here. I feel like now that Hand Up Network is easy to recognize,” said Perot Vance. “They have been working in the community, I feel like now that people are here to help so it is becoming easier to connect with resources locally and statewide.”
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About Hand Up Network
HAND UP NETWORK™ is a 501c3 non-profit based in Tyler, TX that has assembled an international team of leaders with decades of experience with a desire to come back home and bring focus to those in need in local communities. The Network offers long-term programs to people seeking a new season in life and response teams designed to address community issues and emergency response. The Network provides intentional volunteer opportunities for people wanting to provide support within their programs and opportunities to engage via Response Teams. The Hand Up Network was awarded the GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency and a National Top-Rated Nonprofit for 2020! This is the highest level of achievement possible. For more information, visitHandUpNetwork.com or Text “HANDUP” to 76595 to donate.