Give a shout-out to Daytonians helping Daytonians after devastating tornadoes

When times get tough, Daytonians get tougher and lend each other a hand.

Neighbors, businesses, churches and groups  around the Miami Valley are helping local residents get through the aftermath of the devastating Memorial Day tornadoes that left one dead and sent nearly 200 to area hospitals.

>> How to get involved with tornado relief efforts this weekend

Sparred from significant damage at their business and home, Dino Dimitrouleas  and Elesha Snyder, the owners of George's Family Restaurant, decided to pitch in to help those in need.

Over a seven-hour period, the couple, their staff and friends distributed more than 1,000 meals in the parking lot of their business, 5216 N. Dixie Drive in Harrison Twp.

>> Celebrities rise to the challenge in support of tornado relief

“Everyone was really thankful because no one here has power,” Snyder said.

“They don’t have water. They don’t have any food. We were trying to give them extra food to take home.”

>> How you can help tornado victims across the region 

Severe storms and tornadoes hit the Miami Valley Monday night, leaving many in the area without power, access to drinkable water or safe shelter.

  

The restaurant was without water and Dimitrouleas said he and Snyder wanted to use what they had to help.

“Some of them don’t even have houses,” he said. “It is really bad, both just south and just north to us.”

>> Where to find free meals in the Dayton area

And they had help in their effort.

Juices Unlimited donated water and nearby Northridge High School donated food it could not use.

The pair were among many people in the Dayton area who chipped in to help neighbors, strangers, friends and family members.

>> Want to help? Here’s where to donate goods

We want to hear about efforts like these across the region. Please share stories about people who are going above and beyond and neighbors helping neighbors during these hard times..

Comment on our Facebook page or email stories to Contact@Dayton.com.

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