In response to the devastation wrought by severe storms and a reported tornado in Laurel County, Kentucky, Knoxville's Yassin's Falafel House is spearheading a collection of donations for the victims, as announced via their social media accounts. The restaurant, in partnership with Seeds and Bridges, a nonprofit founded by Yassin Terou, is focusing on gathering essential items like blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, and gloves – necessities that local officials have identified as most needed by those affected by the disaster. Yassin's Falafel House is also sending food to meet immediate needs, as WATE reported.
Tragically, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed at least 14 storm-related fatalities across the state, with a death toll mounting as high as 21 in Lauren and Pulaski counties, according to information from officials the community echoed Yassin's call for solidarity and support, urging residents to drop off donations at the restaurant's North Peters Road location until 3 p.m. on Saturday and at Next Level Brewing Company, located on North Broadway in Knoxville, until closing time Saturday night, according to WBIR. Notably, the brewing company has a personal connection to the disaster, revealing through social media that one of its owners, Nathaniel Sears, hails from the afflicted region, adding a layer of immediacy to its call for help.
Aside from physical donations, individuals who are unable to contribute items in person are being directed to provide support through financial means via the Seeds and Bridges website. The non-profit organization, known for its work assisting those affected by various tragedies, has set up an online portal to facilitate such generosity. In a show of communal resilience, a plea echoed across social media platforms, "Let’s show up with the same love, unity, and strength that always defines us," WVLT stated.
