A large tornado struck Perryton, Texas on June 15, killing three people, injuring dozens, and destroying more than 200 homes. Our hearts go out to the Perryton community as they continue to cope with this disaster – yet even amid tragedy, we take solace in another reminder that the agricultural community is always willing to come together and lend a hand to those who need it most.
Immediately after news of the tornado hit the airwaves, numerous AgriSompo North America (ASNA) employees contacted Sherell Marshall, a resident of Perryton and an agent at McIntyre Insurance Agency, to check on her well-being and find out what they could do to assist the devastated community. She said the first five calls she received after news of the tornado broke were all from concerned ASNA employees. Shaken, but fine, Sherell and ASNA started a plan of action to get Perryton the help it needed.
Derrick Haseloff, a Regional Claims Manager at ASNA, was in the area when the tornado occurred. He canceled his plans for the day and rushed to Perryton to see how he could help. When the extent of the damage and the community’s need became clear, he knew that ASNA had an opportunity to step in.
Derrick and Robbie Fossett, ASNA’s Regional Marketing Manager for the Southwest, solicited aid from ASNA employees working at the Lubbock, Texas regional office. Those employees quickly gathered almost $4,000 to assist the town, with gifts continuing to pour in for days after the initial request. AgriSompo North America also worked with Sherell Marshall to partner with a food truck, Smiley’s Food Wagon, to provide meals for the Perryton townspeople.
Derrick visited Perryton the Friday after the tornado to distribute the food ASNA had helped purchase and to coordinate with Smiley's. Robbie traveled to the town later that weekend with the batteries, blankets, clothing, and other supplies purchased with a portion of the ASNA donations. He spoke with the people of Perryton and attended church services there on Sunday morning. “It was pretty humbling,” said Robbie of his time visiting the stricken town.
Some of the supplies donated to Perryton using funds raised by ASNA employees.
The two were touched by the gratitude of Sherell Marshall and other Perryton residents. “This community will never forget what AgriSompo has done,” she told Derrick.
AgriSompo North America strives to engender a culture of stellar service and customer care. Employees like Robbie, Derrick, and all the other team members who banded together with Perryton are a shining example of the success of that mission. We are very proud of everyone who stepped forward to help, and wish the people of Perryton the best as they rebuild and recover.