Community rallies together to help Fountain Park in North St. Louis to rebuild after devastating tornado

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On May 16, 2025, an EF3 tornado swept through Fountain Park North St. Louis, a historically African American neighborhood known for its iconic fountain, tree-lined streets, and tight-knit community.

The storm claimed five lives, injured at least 39 people, and damaged or destroyed more than 5,000 buildings across the city — with Fountain Park suffering a particularly heavy toll.

Community rallies together to help Fountain Park North St. Louis to rebuild

Home to roughly 1,075 residents, Fountain Park is a neighborhood where many families have lived for generations. The tornado’s impact has left scores of residents displaced, and in urgent need of support.

In response, local organizer Ginelle Bess quickly mobilized grassroots relief efforts. Operating from the early hours following the disaster, Bess began delivering food, essential supplies, and emotional support to affected neighbors. As word of her work spread, donations and volunteer support poured in, bolstering the effort.

More than a week after the storm, Bess continues to coordinate temporary housing for displaced families, organize volunteer cleanup teams, and distribute emergency aid. Her efforts have become a vital lifeline for many in the Fountain Park community.

Updates on her ongoing work and opportunities to support Fountain Park can be found on her Instagram page.

GoFundMe

A GoFundMe has been created to help Fountain Park rebuild. At the date of this posting, the fundraiser has raised a little over $9,000 out of its $100,000 goal.

The donated funds are being allocated across several critical areas of need. A portion is being used to cover the cost of dumpsters and trash removal services to assist with debris cleanup in the hardest-hit neighborhoods. Additionally, funds are supporting temporary hotel accommodations for displaced residents, ensuring they have safe shelter.

Organizers have also used donations to purchase clothing and basic necessities for individuals who lost nearly everything in the storm. Warm meals, hygiene supplies, and essential materials for rebuilding efforts are being provided as part of the ongoing relief operations.

“Rebuilding Fountain Park is not just about restoring buildings; it’s about revitalizing a community. Your contribution will directly impact families striving to return to normalcy, preserve the neighborhood’s heritage, and foster a renewed sense of hope,” the GoFundMe reads.

Visit the GoFundMe here for more information and to donate.