Rebuilding and Recovering in Joplin, Missouri

The Takeaway

One month ago today, President Obama visited the town of Joplin, Missouri, where a tornado killed 156 people and caused millions of dollars in damage.  Today we’re going back to the scene of the devastation to see how Joplin residents are recovering one month after President Obama told Joplin, “There’s no doubt in my mind that Joplin will rebuild. And as President, I can promise you your country will be there with you every single step of the way…The cameras may leave. The spotlight may shift. But we will be with you every step of the way until Joplin is restored and this community is back on its feet. We’re not going anywhere.” Joining us is Lauren Zimmerman,  Mass Care Chief Administrator for the Red Cross in Joplin. Also with us is Alan Matthews, co-host of the TV program, “Good Morning Four States,” at Channel 12, KODE in Joplin. We spoke to Allan two days after the tornado, which destroyed his home.  

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