By Glenn Rolfe

LEWES – Humanitarian response to devastation and heartbreak suffered by tornado-ravaged towns in Kentucky has spurred a relief effort facilitated by the Sussex County Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans Association.

According to VVA Chapter 1105 President Rodger Rose, donations of food, clothing, and supplies are being accepted through Christmas, with plans to depart for Kentucky from JD Shuckers in Lewes Dec. 28.

Mayfield, one of the western Kentucky towns hardest hit by tornadoes that struck overnight into Dec. 11, is a probable destination, Mr. Rose said.

“I talked to the president down there of the Vietnam Veterans and he said that two towns are just wiped off the map,” said Mr. Rose. “The one I think we are going to go to is Mayfield.”

At least 77 people were killed, and thousands of homes and buildings destroyed by a twister designated an EF4 by the National Weather Service.

VVA Chapter 1105 initially sent a $500 donation, then opted to facilitate a supply initiative.

Items needed include new or slightly used clothing, canned goods and non-perishable food, small kitchen appliances, toys, books and games for children, and other basic goods and supplies. Gift cards are also welcome.

“They would love to distribute to the people everything we take to them,” said Mr. Rose.

Supplies can be dropped off Dec. 27 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at JD Shuckers.

Mr. Rose’s residence – 31668 Sloan Cove Road, Lewes – will also serve as a pickup point/collection hub. Mr. Rose can be contacted at 302-947-9626 or 303-618-2990.

“They can call me, and they can bring stuff. I will put it in my garage until then,” said Mr. Rose.

Mr. Rose may also be reached via email at rodger.n.rose@gmail.com.

The VVA Chapter 1105’s original plan was to collect supplies and leave on Wednesday. But Mr. Rose said in speaking with Jack Mattingly, the Kentucky VVA State Council president, he said “they are swamped, and requested that we hold off until after Christmas to take things to Kentucky.”

Several pickup trucks may be utilized, although plans may upgrade to an enclosed box-type truck or U-Haul rental.

“I will be going, along with one or two others,” said Mr. Rose. “That is the game plan.”