Susan Sandvig, Contributing writer for MODR

Six minutes can change everything. In the early morning of April 27, an F2 tornado tore through Saline County with winds exceeding 160 mph and stretching roughly 350 yards wide. Though brief and only on the ground for 6 minutes, the storm caused widespread damage and left residents without power for three days.

According to Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief (MODR) volunteers, the tornado knocked down every light pole along a 16-mile stretch and toppled countless trees, many of which damaged homes and buildings. As the community assessed the destruction, help quickly arrived.

Within hours, MODR food service teams mobilized, serving more than 1,000 meals over three days. The American Legion Hall in Slater and a distribution site at First Baptist Church in Marshall ensured that both Slater and Gilliam residents had access to hot meals and clean water during the crisis.

Cleanup efforts followed soon after. Volunteer teams led by Dan Freeze and Johnie Alden worked tirelessly to remove fallen trees and debris from damaged properties. Despite tight spaces and challenging conditions, they completed numerous jobs, helping families begin the recovery process.

Along the way, volunteers encountered meaningful moments. One team met a veteran whose home had been damaged, yet who shared a powerful story of hope that left a lasting impression. With schools closed due to outages, volunteers also supported local children—many of whom depend on school meals—by providing food, care, and sharing the love of God.

Though the tornado lasted only minutes, its impact endures. Yet through service, compassion, and faith, volunteers brought hope to a hurting community—proving that even in the aftermath of disaster, small acts can make a lasting difference.