Fredericktown sends supplies, support to Des Arc

FREDERICKTOWN, Mo. (KBSI) — The sheriff and police chief of Fredericktown teamed up with local businesses to collect canned goods and nonperishable food items from Walmart, then delivered 500 sandwiches to a church in Des Arc, a community grappling with the aftermath of severe weather.

Eric Hovis, chief of the Fredericktown Police Department, said he felt compelled to give back, recalling the times his own community has faced similar challenges.

“Our community has been through this a couple of times,” Hovis said. “For example, in 2009, we had straight-line winds from what they called an inland hurricane, which damaged a lot of property. Then, two years ago, a tornado came through, damaging much of the area, including the local electric power company and several homes. We know what it’s like to have everything out of the norm and damaged.”

Des Arc is currently dealing with downed power lines, leaving many without electricity and the ability to cook. Fredericktown’s Walmart quickly took notice of the situation and gathered essential supplies to help.

“We’re bringing in gas and grills because a lot of areas still don’t have electricity right now,” Hovis said. “The electric co-op is amazing and has worked quickly to restore power to areas like Greenville and Piedmont, but it will take longer for outlying areas.”

While donations from businesses played a role, Hovis emphasized the importance of community support. Churches, individuals, and neighbors rallied together to pack trailers full of supplies, which were then sent to Wayne County.

“I didn’t want to just take money. We went out to Walmart, loaded up the truck and trailer, and had my officers help load the supplies,” Hovis said.

Fredericktown wasn’t alone in its efforts. Neighboring counties also contributed to the relief effort.

“We’re not the only ones. We do what we can because, in our time of need, we’ve had so many people jump in and help us through mutual aid,” Hovis said. “We love our community.”

Fredericktown’s efforts included a 32-foot enclosed trailer and two four-door trucks filled with food, cleaning supplies, gas, and other items that could aid in the disaster recovery process. The convoy made its way to the Piedmont Fire House to support the neighboring town.