Tornado anniversary

Thanksgiving is a bittersweet holiday this year for many of our neighbors in North Minneapolis. Yesterday was the 6-month anniversary of the tornado that devastated a large swath of the city that was already battling poverty and related problems. Six months have passed and many homes still have tarps on roofs and windows to keep out the cold and snow.

A lot of great organizations, government agencies, and individuals have been on the ground providing assistance, but there is much more to be done. As we give thanks this year for all that we have, please don't forget those who are less fortunate. Consider making a donation to help our neighbors this Thanksgiving. The Minnesota Helps - North Minneapolis Recovery Fund supports many organizations in recovery efforts, and there are also many other opportunities to help that may fit your interests.

Tree Trust continues to partner with the City of Minneapolis and others to aid in recovery efforts. Our YouthBuild program has worked to rehab and rebuild homes and apartment buildings in tornado damaged neighborhoods. Our Community Forestry Department has distributed 202 trees so far to residents of North Minneapolis who had their tree canopy devastated by the tornado. YouthBuild and Community Forestry will continue working in the area in the coming year. Visit Tree Trust's website to make a donation or for more information.

If you are a resident of North Minneapolis who was affected by the tornado, the City of Minneapolis established a tornado assistance fund to help homeowners rebuild. If you think you may qualify, visit the tornado recovery page of the City of Minneapolis website for more information on available resources.