A massive volunteer effort brought hope and healing to the Seabury family Thursday as 97 people and 12 heavy-duty machines helped clear tornado damage from the family’s farm.

Coordinated by Jeannnine Thompson, the cleanup effort was bolstered by two chippers, donations from local businesses, and the hard work of residents who came together in the heat to lend a hand.

Among the most emotional moments volunteers found four chickens alive under rubble after being trapped for three days.

“It was more than just cleanup,” Thompson said. “It was about restoring hope.”

The Seabury family lost a barn filled with tools, supplies, and livestock.

While much was damaged, the community’s response left them overwhelmed with gratitude.

What’s Still Needed:

   •Donations via the Seabury GoFundMe

   •Sturdy lidded storage containers for recovered tools

   •Volunteers to walk the hay fields and remove debris

   •Help cleaning debris-filled ponds

“Erie, you showed up in a big way,” Thompson said. “Let’s keep the momentum going.”