My name is Russell Maynard. I’m a resident of London, KY (Laurel County). On May 16, 2025, our community saw devastation as an EF-4 tornado struck our beautiful hometown. Thousands now face the hardship of gathering what’s left of their lives and trying to restore some sense of normalcy. Most of the community is without power, without enough supplies, and they’re asking for help through donations of any kind.

As this tornado tracked across London, it destroyed hundreds of homes, businesses, and a large portion of my local airport. This is the airport where I learned to fly and have spent much of my time over the past 20 years. Hangars and airplanes/helicopters were destroyed.

Currently, this is still a search and rescue mission and is starting to phase into cleanup. Soon after, we will see the rebuilding phase take root. However, during this time, our community is in need of a lot of items. Any donations received here will go directly to the items that are needed (cleaning supplies, water, food, baby diapers and baby food, clothing, shoes, etc). I will either buy these items and distribute them to the donation centers that have been set up throughout our town, or the money will be given to the proper authorities to distribute where it’s most needed. Every single penny will go toward helping those who need it most.

Our town has been faced with a major tragedy and we have a lot of people counting on those who can help out of the goodness of their hearts.

I’m asking that you donate whatever you can, no amount is too small, to help my community and those who desperately need it now.