Hallam/Southeast Nebraska Tornado/One-Year Later

May 22, 2004. A day many people in southeastern Nebraska will never forget. Although its one year later, many tornado victims haven't healed from emotional and financial wounds caused by the storm. Although many people received insurance money and federal and state aid, it didn't cover the cost associated with rebuilding. The Lincoln Action Program tells Channel 8 Eyewitness News that temporary housing assistance runs out for six Hallam storm victims in June. They haven't had time to rebuild their homes and can't afford temporary housing and the cost of rebuilding. Hallam Village leaders also need money to rebuild or repair roads, parks, the cemetery, the fire department, the community center and road signs. Hallam has received $27,000 in private donations and needs to raise $190,000. The storm traveled 50 miles through southeast Nebraska and many people in rural areas need assistance because insurance and other aid fell short as well. Some victims are suffering from post traumatic stress and need to take their families to counseling. Although storm victims are grateful to everyone who donated their time volunteering and making cash donations, they still need financial support. You can help.

If you would like to make a donation to the Hallam Area Foundation to help fund public infrastructure, you can make a tax deductible contribution to: Hallam Area Foundation, P.O. Box 2, Hallam, Nebraska, 68368-0002. If you would like to make a donation to southeastern Nebraska families (Including Hallam) who still need support, you can make your checks payable to: Lutheran Family Services. Attn: Lutheran Disaster Response, 124 South 24th Street, Omaha, Nebraska, 68102.   If you would like to help people clean up in the Wilber-Clatonia area, a fund has been set up at:  Interchurch Ministries Of Nebraska Tornado Relief, 215 South Centennial Mall Suite 411, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508.