It’s hard to put into words what May 21, 2024, felt like. The EF-4 tornado that hit my hometown of Greenfield changed everything in an instant. But if there’s one thing I’ve always known about Greenfield, it’s that this town doesn’t give up.
Nearly a year later, our community has come together in ways I’ll never forget. From the first hours after the storm to the steady, determined rebuilding we see today, Greenfield has been showing what true resilience looks like. And I’m not just speaking as someone who calls this place home — I’m also proud to work for Gilcrest Jewett Lumber Company, a branch of USLBM – one of the many businesses helping to put our town back together.
Gilcrest Jewett and our team at Plum Building Systems have had the privilege of helping design and supply lumber for several of the new homes going up around town. These aren’t just buildings — they’re new beginnings. We’ve watched families return to their lots, pick out plans, and start over, step by step. Being a part of that process — being able to support people as both a neighbor and a resource — has been deeply humbling.
And it’s not just us. Thanks to the USLBM Foundation’s Foundation for Giving Program donation and donations coordinated by the incredible Greater Greenfield Community Foundation, over $1 million has been raised for recovery efforts. So far, 51 building permits have been issued, and 34 homes are actively under construction. That number is growing every week. The hospital has reopened. Trees are being planted. Photos lost in the wind are finding their way home.
There’s still a long road ahead, but I see so much hope. To everyone who’s contributed time, talent, money, or a thoughtful word when we needed in most — thank you.
Greenfield is still standing. And we’re not just rebuilding homes — we’re rebuilding stronger, together.
For updates or ways you can help, visit the Greater Greenfield Community Foundation
— Deborah Foster
Proud Greenfield Resident & Gilcrest Jewett/Plum Building Systems Team Member