Matt Hughes : Storm Chasers : Discovery Channel

Yazoo City Tribute

Help Yazoo City Rebuild

Yazoo's proud citizens need your help more than ever!

Just seven months after the devastating EF4 strike, Yazoo City was hit again on Monday, Nov. 29. Shortly after 8 p.m., one EF2 tornado struck the downtown area while a second ripped through the southwest suburbs. Although damage was on a smaller scale than last April, this is another setback for a community that has had more than enough tragedy and devastation.

ONCE AGAIN, we ask you to join Discovery Channel's Storm Chasers in helping the residents of Yazoo City, Mississippi rebuild their lives, homes and businesses.

The massive EF4 tornado that struck central Mississippi on April 24th was one of the largest and deadliest in the state's history. The tornado reached its apex of power and destruction when it hit the town of Yazoo City leaving behind 10 dead and over 140 injured. More than 400 homes and businesses were destroyed at an estimated cost of over 50 million dollars.

Despite these catastrophic losses, the proud Yazoo City residents are determined to rebuild — BUT THEY NEED YOUR HELP!

Not long after the disaster in April, community leaders joined with others across the country — including Reed Timmer and Discovery's Storm Chasers — to set up the non-profit YAZOO HUMANITARIAN RECOVERY (YHR) organization to provide emotional support and physical assistance to the survivors of the April 24th tornado. YHR is currently working with 40 plus cases focused on repairing lives and rebuilding homes of Yazoo City residents.

Message from Van Ray, chairman of YAZOO HUMANITARIAN RECOVERY.

Contributions in the form of checks can be made out to "YAZOO HUMANITARIAN RECOVERY"

Please send them to:

YAZOO HUMANITARIAN RECOVERY
C/O Bank of Yazoo City
PO Box 600
Yazoo City, MS 39194
Attn: Van Ray

Matt Hughes, a featured meteorologist on Storm Chasers passed away on May 26th, 2010 in Wichita, Kansas due to an injury unrelated to his chasing activities. Sean, Reed, Tim and everyone involved in Storm Chasers mourn the loss of their friend and colleague.

REMEMBERING MATT PHOTOS

WATCH VIDEO: TRIBUTE TO MATT

A personal message from Matt's wife Kendra and mother Cindy:

"We want the public to know what his many family, friends, and co-workers already know; Matt Hughes was truly a wonderful and caring person with such a kind and loving spirit. Those around him could not help but love him too."

"Our family never intended to conceal the circumstances surrounding Matt's death in an effort to deceive the public, but rather to allow us to grieve privately, as well as, protect the many young children that have been affected by this tragedy. Depression is an extremely widespread, yet treatable, condition. Receiving education regarding the signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation is essential. Those who know of, or may need help themselves, need to seek treatment or call the "National Suicide Prevention Lifeline" at (800) 273-TALK (8255)."

"We are grateful to so many who have offered their support during Matt's time in the hospital, and the difficult months following his death. Most importantly, we thank God for giving him to us, if only for a short time."

A special memorial fund has been established to benefit Matt's two young sons. Donations can be made to:

Matthew John Hughes Memorial Fund
c/o Intrust Bank
142 North Ash
Valley Center, Kansas 67147

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