CLEVELAND, June 21 — The BLET’s Oklahoma State Legislative Board has established a benevolent fund to help railroaders impacted by the massive tornadoes that devastated parts of the state in May.
Under the leadership of Chairman Terry Schulenberg, the Board has already donated $500 each to five railroaders who lost everything in the storm.
“They lost everything, right down to the foundation of their homes, and they are starting over from scratch,” Brother Schulenberg said. “We are trying to help them get back on their feet.”
Members of the Board made the donations at a safety meeting yesterday. Brother Schulenberg said some of the recipients have small children at home and had just minutes to escape the devastation.
“They had about 16-20 minutes notice to get under ground or away from the storm. This storm developed about four miles from me and we sat on my patio and watched it form, having no idea it would be this bad,” he said. “I’m sure you’ve seen the pictures, but they don’t do justice of what it actually looks like.”
Brother K.L. Ealey III, Secretary-Treasurer of the Oklahoma State Legislative Board, has set up an account to accept donations to help more railroaders impacted by the storm. Those willing to help can make donations through the Bank of America located at 8901 S. Western, Oklahoma City, OK, 73139. Checks or money orders should be made payable to “Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers OSLB.” The account will be open for two months.
“Our most sincere thanks for your help,” Brother Schulenberg said.
Anyone with questions should contact Brother Schulenberg by email: tlschulenberg@gmail.com.