Governor takes time to remember those lost, thank those who continue to help rebuild
GILBERTSVILLE, Ky. (Dec. 10, 2024) – Three years after tornadoes that took the lives of 81 Kentuckians on Dec. 10-11, 2021, Gov. Andy Beshear visited Western Kentucky today to remember those lost and to thank those who continue the work of rebuilding.
“Today we remember the precious lives taken – each one a child of God – who will forever be missed by their loved ones. But my faith teaches me that we will see them again,” Gov. Beshear said. “Today, we also take time to thank those who have worked tirelessly over the years to help rebuild lives, homes and communities. We are rebuilding stronger because of the love and compassion you’ve shown your neighbors.”
Gov. Beshear planned to join His House Ministries Pastor Stephen Boyken and Mayor Kathy O’Nan in Mayfield for a remembrance ceremony and the dedication of 8 new homes, but due to unsafe travel conditions he was unable to attend. More than 50 homes have now been dedicated by the Hope Initiative, and many of the families receiving them were in attendance. With support from the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, more than 221 homes have been built, significantly repaired or are under construction.
“It’s already been three years since disaster struck our community. Three years of recovery, rebuilding and reflection. Among the many lessons we have learned, few stand out greater than the need for steadfast leadership following a disaster,” said Pastor Boyken. “The necessity of servant leaders that inspire hope, demonstrate compassion and keep their promises in spite of obstacles that arise. Today, we are able to dedicate our 50th home because of those kind souls from around the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond that have given, served and led. Thanks to funding from the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, we have been able to help more families than we ever thought possible. Thank you, Gov. Beshear for your leadership, your compassion and for keeping your promise.”
“As we observe the three-year mark after the historic tornado that tore through Mayfield, we remember the dear ones who lost their lives and remind their families that they will never be forgotten,” said Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan. “We also celebrate the resiliency of the people who call Mayfield home, and we commend their determination to rebuild and recreate our community. Together we will forever be Mayfield Strong.”
In Gilbertsville, the Governor joined AT&T officials and local leaders to celebrate the company’s $3 million investment into high-speed internet since the tornadoes. The Governor trip also includes travel to his family’s hometown of Dawson Springs to visit the tornado memorial and observe a moment of silence. Finally, Gov. Beshear will attend the Habitat for Humanity home dedication in Muhlenberg County for the Oglesby family, who tragically lost their 5-month-old son in the storms.
“Through tragedy and the most difficult of times, we continue to stand together and keep our promise to be there until every structure and life is rebuilt,” said Gov. Beshear.
Today’s announcements build on the work that has been done over the years by local, state and federal leaders, nonprofit organizations and volunteers. This year, rebuilding updates include:
- Since the tornado outbreak, Gov. Beshear has now announced 75 private sector projects for a total investment of more than $3.3 billion and 5,113 new jobs in tornado-affected counties.
- The Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund raised over $52 million to pay for funeral expenses, aid survivors and build up to 300 homes in the area.
- The West Kentucky State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE), which was established by the Governor and lawmakers, has awarded about $148 million to eligible cities, counties, public and nonprofit utilities and school districts for much-needed financial support.
- In October, the Governor helped break ground on a new city hall and police station in the city of Mayfield. On Sept. 23, the city of Mayfield broke ground on a new fire station. The projects are supported by SAFE funds.
- In September, Gov. Beshear announced $1.3 million to replace an undersized culvert under Whispering Hills Boulevard in Bowling Green.
- In June, the Governor along with the Kentucky Housing Corporation, announced a combined more than $223 million to build 953 affordable rental units for tornado-impacted communities.
- In June, Gov. Beshear highlighted a $31.5 million effort made possible by federal grants and $6.3 million in state transportation funds to revitalize the city of Mayfield’s downtown and support economic growth.
- In March, Gov. Beshear announced more than $5.9 million to make improvements to Mayfield’s stormwater infrastructure.
- In March, Gov. Beshear also announced the Marshall County Fiscal Court will use $654,000 for a home rehabilitation project to repair homes damaged in the tornadoes.
- Also in March, Gov. Beshear announced the Fulton County Fiscal Court will use $2 million to acquire 12 lots to build homes for tornado survivors.
Funding to support families and communities over the past three years, now totals:
- Private insurance has paid out 16,688 tornado damage claims totaling nearly $500 million.
- Almost $16 million has been approved through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individual Assistance Program for 2,325 applications to individuals and households across 16 counties. This includes more than $10.9 million allocated for housing assistance, essential repairs, temporary housing and other critical needs.
- Over $150 million has been obligated from FEMA’s Public Assistance Program to assist 23 declared counties in meeting emergency needs and restoring public services.
- Kentucky’s federal representatives helped secure $123 million in federal funding to help Kentucky rebuild.
- Over $59.4 million in low-interest disaster loans have been approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration to support individuals and businesses affected by the disaster.
- The U.S. Department of Labor approved up to $25 million to assist dislocated Kentucky workers.
- Local partners and the Kentucky Housing Corporation provided $16.5 million in financing for housing for victims.
- Over $11.3 million has been allocated from FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to safeguard communities against future disasters.
- More than $4.2 million was provided through FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance to address personal property losses, medical expenses and other disaster-related costs.
Today, the Governor paid tribute to the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky Division of Forestry, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, Kentucky Emergency Management, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, local sheriff and police departments, EMS and local government leaders who went above and beyond to help others in the aftermath of the storms.
The Governor also thanked nonprofit leaders and volunteers who helped provide food, shelter and other essentials to those affected. One example of the kindness shown by volunteers was just days after the tornadoes, when First Lady Britainy Beshear organized a Christmas toy drive that resulted in more than 100,000 toys and $200,000 in gift card donations that poured in from around the country to help the kids who lost so much.
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