Ellis Family Disaster Relief Fund

Around 4:00am on June 22nd, 2015, the small town of Garretson, SD, was hit by a severe storm with winds of over 100mph. My cousin, Cherie, and her husband, Rollie, awoke to wind that "sounded like a freight train heading toward their house". No sirens went off. They had no warning.

They quickly grabbed their 4 year old daughter, Kodie, just as the roof was torn off of their bedrooms. As they tried to make their way to the basement, the roof came off of their living room and there was no way for them to make it down the stairs. Rollie grabbed their dog and they made the split second decision to take shelter in the only place left...the bathroom.

We know that a higher power was looking out for our loved ones because they were unhurt. The only place on the house that has part of the roof remaining is the bathroom. We are so thankful to God and our guardian angels for keeping them safe.

This storm took their home, furniture, clothing, bedding, toys, stuffed animals, books, and keepsakes. It damaged vehicles as well.

Rollie, Cherie and Kodie now have to pick up what few pieces of their personal belongings they have left and move forward. They are a loving family who is always there to lend a helping hand to someone in need. Now they need our help.

Any donations to help them get back on their feet would be greatly appreciated.

We also want to send prayers up for the others in Garretson who suffered damage and loss in this storm. Kindness, generosity and compassion are still alive in the people of Garretson and the surrounding communities. And that should give us hope.