Last weekend’s torrential rains, dropping as much as 17 inches in Middle Tennessee, wreaked havoc in parts of Humphreys, Hickman, Houston and Dickson Counties, all located just outside of Nashville. The flood waters claimed the lives of at least 20 people, including Loretta Lynn‘s ranch foreman, Wayne Spears, and damaged numerous homes and buildings. Several in the music community and beyond are stepping up to help those in need. See the list below for ways to offer assistance.
Grand Ole Opry:
The Grand Ole Opry is partnering with The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to raise money during the August 28 broadcast. Both the Opry’s hosts and artists, including Michael Ray, Rodney Crowell, Laine Hardy, Lauren Alaina and more, will invite viewers, in-person and online, to make a donation. Donations to The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee in the Grand Ole Opry’s name can also be made here.
John Schneider:
Actor and musician John Schneider and his wife, Alicia, will have an 18-wheeler at three different locations, where people can drop off non-perishable items. Schneider, who survived two Louisiana floods in 2016, will also be on hand to greet those making donations.
“We can so relate to the trauma of the floods,” Schneider says. “We are working on a large effort to help our friends in Middle Tennessee.”
On August 30, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, donations can be dropped off at The Dunlap Mercantile, 15664 Rankin Ave, Dunlap, TN 37327. On August 31, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, donations can be dropped off at Conduit Church, 1642 Lewisburg Pike, Franklin, TN 37064. And on September 1, donations can be brought to Huckabee Theater at Trinity Music City USA, 1 Music Village Blvd, Hendersonville, TN 37075.
Tennessee Emergency Response Fund:
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has launched the Tennessee Emergency Response Fund, to help those with a wide variety of needs.
“The most important way that folks can help those that have been impacted by this terrible tragedy is with monetary donations,” TEMA Director Patrick Sheehan said (via WKRN). “People will be working to find new homes or temporary living arrangements for weeks and months to come and there are a number of reputable organizations that will help to process donations.”
American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross is partnering with WSMV in helping with supplies, shelter, food, medical needs and more. Donations made here will go directly to helping the flood victims.
Waverly Animal Shelter:
The Waverly Animal Shelter is in need of families to foster displaced animals, also teaming up with the Humphreys County Humane Society to reunite owners and their pets. The shelter is in need of drinking water, kennels, dog and cat food and cleaning supplies. Donations and more information can be found here.