SIKESTON, Mo. – Storms on Sunday caused damage in Sikeston. Crews of community members worked Monday to clear fallen trees and power lines. The city’s Department of Public Safety confirmed the death of one person during Sunday’s storm and worked Monday to fully assess the damage.
Several people in the city were experiencing power outages and were unsure when power would be restored. That’s why John McHaffie and his congregation spent Sunday evening and Monday morning helping people affected by the storms. He said although he has never seen weather like this, he is committed to helping those in need.
“I said, ‘I have to step up,’ so I called a few times and said, we have to do something. There is a great need in our community. People are hungry,” he said.
Cars lined up outside Sikeston First Assembly of God for a free hot lunch and disaster supplies. McHaffie said even though the church had no power, they wanted to help.
“It breaks my heart to see so many people – we have so many trees on the roads and the destruction. It breaks my heart because that is someone’s life, someone’s home, someone’s safe place that has been disrupted. And so as a community we must stand with them and say that your life matters,” he said.
Volunteers from Sikeston’s Hope Center Ministries also wanted to lend a helping hand. Volunteer Gregg Pearson said his brothers sprang into action when they heard people needed help.
“You don’t have to know people to help them. If you see a neighbor who needs help, you just help him or her,” Pearson said.
Working with Sikeston First Assembly of God, Pearson said this wasn’t the way they envisioned their Memorial Day, but he wouldn’t change a thing.
‘It’s the least we can do, just help. Hope Center Ministries is all about brotherhood, and the brotherhood we have together allows us to work together as a team in various tasks, you know, for the community. This is just one of the many tasks we are doing for a better cause,” he said.
Due to the damage and power outages, the American Red Cross set up a shelter at the local YMCA. Shelter leaders said they will maintain the resource until all needs are met. They have about 40 cots for those who need a sleeping and showering area.
