In the wake of the devastating tornado that struck Northwest Arkansas, our Fellowes team is humbled to have played a small part in the ongoing relief efforts.

On Sunday, May 26, 2024, the Bentonville and Rogers area experienced the largest recorded tornado in Arkansas history. This massive tornado, 1.7 miles wide with wind speeds over 95 mph, caused extensive damage, displacing hundreds of families and severely impacting local businesses. The immediate aftermath saw a community grappling with immense loss and urgent needs.

Carmen Harmon, our National Account Team Lead for US Retail Sales, reached out to our team after seeing the overwhelming demand for boxes to help displaced families salvage personal belongings and move to temporary housing. The local high schools and churches were transformed into shelters, and there was a critical need for organizational supplies.

In response, our team coordinated the donation of 2,300 Bankers Boxes to aid the relief efforts. Becky Wade, our Global Market Manager for Storage & Organization, and other team members worked quickly to ensure these boxes reached the community as soon as possible.

These boxes have since been put to good use in a variety of ways. The National Guard, alongside athletes from the University of Arkansas Men’s Football and Basketball teams, distributed the boxes in the hardest-hit areas. Families and business owners used them to sift through the debris and salvage belongings. At the Rogers High School Relief Center, the boxes were available for those needing to pack essentials or store items during their transition to temporary housing.

Carmen shared the gratitude expressed by the disaster relief organizers and the community:

“The boxes were very much needed and gratefully appreciated by the disaster relief organizers and the community/families in need. It was heartwarming to see the relief efforts in action and to know that the boxes were making a difference.”

We are moved by the resilience and solidarity of the NWA community, including the efforts of Walmart, J.B. Hunt Trucking, Tyson Foods, George’s Chicken, University of Arkansas, and many others who have come together to provide essential support.

Our thoughts are with all those affected by this disaster. We remain committed to supporting the community in any way we can and are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the relief efforts.

For those interested in supporting the ongoing relief efforts in Northwest Arkansas, please visit the Rogers High School Disaster Relief Center’s Facebook page or contact the Rogers Police Department for more information on needed supplies and volunteer opportunities.