Tennesseans have had it tough in recent weeks, battling not only the coronavirus pandemic but also tornadoes that swept through the southeast early in April. In light of all of the scary news, the team at Gilreath & Associates wanted to share some uplifting and positive news stories about how Tennesseeans and all Americans have come together in recent weeks to support one another.
Help from overseas
It’s no secret Italy has been one of the countries hit the hardest during the global pandemic, which makes their contribution to fighting the coronavirus all the more appreciated.
An Air Force C-17 flew 500,000 swabs as part of coronavirus test kits made overseas and in the U.S. to Memphis, Tennessee in March. More missions of this nature are expected to take place in the future as the U.S. military focuses its efforts on fighting COVID-19.
Senior citizens will not go hungry
Citizens aged 60 and older have been especially encouraged to stay home as much as possible during the pandemic as their immune systems are less able to combat the coronavirus. While grocery stores have adjusted their hours to accommodate this, one country star took it a step further.
Brad Paisley announced on March 17 that his free grocery store would be delivering free food to senior citizens in Nashville on Wednesdays and Thursdays. This provides a week’s worth of groceries to elderly neighbors in Edgehill and Berry Hill while it remains open to the public so they can also continue to get food.
Cookeville comes to Chattanooga’s aid
While still suffering from its own tornado earlier this year, the city of Cookeville came together to help the folks in Chattanooga by sending their first responders to clear the damage of their tornado disaster.
Together with the Chattanooga Fire Department, they cleared close to 80 percent of the damaged structures in the path of the EF-3 tornado in less than 48 hours.
Mayor Andy Berke of Chattanooga also directed safety equipment to protect first responders in the wake of the pandemic, including protective eyewear, gowns and masks.
“The toughest times bring out the best in our people and show the strength of our community,” commented Mayor Berke.
Shining light during dark times (literally!)
If there’s one way to spread cheer during the coronavirus in Tennessee, it’s by donning homes with Christmas lights (even in the middle of March). In the midst of a pandemic, many have put up Christmas lights as a way to bring hope and cheer during a tough period.
As one Twitter user said, “My youngest son was bored today and said, ‘Can we put Christmas lights on our tree outside to cheer us up?’ Great idea buddy.”
We couldn’t agree more!
Here at Gilreath & Associates, we want all Tennesseeans to know that we remain open to serve our community. Our team is taking every precaution possible to stay safe and healthy during this time. If you or a loved one have suffered from a personal injury or workplace illness, don’t hesitate to call our Tennessee attorneys for professional and compassionate expertise regarding your case.