Following last week’s EF3 tornado that has caused extensive damage in Perryton, both KXDJ Radio’s Chris Samples and https://highplainsobserverperryton.com/ continue to provide frequent and detailed updates regarding the needs of that devastated community.

The remarkable efforts of local businesses, churches, agencies and individuals continue to serve the most urgent needs of citizens who have been left virtually homeless. Assistance continues to arrive from all over the country, as well—offering not only much-needed aid, but also a much-needed sense of unity we would all do well to observe and practice in our own lives.

During a trip to Perryton on Tuesday, June 20, where he worked with the Southern Baptist of Texas disaster response team that had been deployed there, Alan Hale captured a few images of the destruction, which we have shared here.

“The pictures don’t show how bad it is,” he said.

And they may not. But they certainly offer a harrowing reminder of the challenges the community of Perryton is dealing with today.

In this summary of the continuing tornado relief efforts, the High Plains Observer Perryton details everything from ongoing electrical power and natural gas outages and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning risks, to provisions for temporary showers that have been made at multiple locations through the city, with shower locations in Leatherman Park, and Key Heights Baptist Church, and in Murphy Park, where a cooling center has also been set up for heat relief.

Medical needs are being addressed by Ochiltree General Hospital, and mental health services are available at 1200 S. Jefferson. The American Red Cross has also been involved in providing shelter and supplies to many of those who have been left with little to nothing. All of their services are free.

Routine trash collection has been reduced to non-affected customers, while crews continue to restore roadway access. The landfill is open from 8 am-8 pm daily, weather permitting.

An alphabet soup of state agencies—ranging from Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks & Wildlife, the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force—are providing essential support services to the community, as well.

What can we do to help?

The most useful form of assistance is monetary donations to meet disaster-related expense needs. Accounts have been set up at Perryton National Bank, FirstBank Southwest, Interstate Bank and First National Bank. All donations will be held locally, we are told.

In addition, an Amazon wish list for the churches providing tornado relief to the public has been compiled. If you would like to purchase items that the churches know they are in need of, follow this link https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1I5VWJ6YTAF98?ref_=wl_share to the Perryton Disaster Relief Wish List, where both individual and corporate donations will be greatly appreciated. The items listed here are needed immediately.