McCook man rallies to help family, neighbors affected by storm

Tom Burns shares his plans to travel to use his food truck to aid in the hurricane relief efforts in Greeneville, Tenn.

Anna LaBay/McCook Gazette

McCOOK Neb. — In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on Greeneville, Tenn., McCook resident Tom Burns is taking action to support his family and community affected by the disaster. Burns has two sisters living in Greeneville, and while they are safe, he reports that half the town has been wiped away. “I was sitting at home after talking to my sisters and complaining to my wife that they need help,” Burns shared. “I’m in a situation where I could go there and do something. And she said, ‘Well, do it.’”

With an inspiring call to action, Burns announced via social media that his food truck, The Traveling Bison, will be temporarily closed for about two weeks as he heads east to provide disaster relief. “We are both sorry & honored to have to tell our town that The Traveling Bison will be locally closed for about two weeks. The Traveling Bison is going to be traveling. We are heading east for disaster relief help,” he posted on Facebook.

He also reached out to the community for assistance, stating, “The cost of traveling to Eastern Tenn. is expensive, especially when hauling the full mobile kitchen. If you can help, please Venmo for relief efforts to those affected by Hurricane Helene. Thank you so very much, McCook. Help us help them.

Earlier this year, Tom and his wife, Regina, launched The Traveling Bison Food Truck. The truck serves its signature pizzas, created using Regina’s perfected crust, along with Bison burgers that have become a local favorite. However, during this mission, Burns plans to adjust his offerings to more bulk-friendly comfort foods like casseroles and spaghetti to better serve those in need.

In addition to meals, Burns has gathered essential supplies such as water, baby items, pet food, and toiletries. With Greeneville currently lacking running water, he determined: “I’ll load up with all the supplies we can fit and go down there and feed them.” He also plans to bring chainsaws to assist with cleanup efforts, saying, “I’ll help in whatever way I can.”

His cousin Angie Karr has been instrumental in coordinating donations, noting that the Greene County Health Department has welcomed their food truck’s involvement.

As Burns departs for Tennessee today, he intends to keep the Gazette updated on his journey and any challenges he faces. “I’ve never undertaken anything like this before,” he said humbly. Growing up in a community now ravaged by flooding, he is particularly moved by the devastation described by his sisters. Reflecting on the upcoming journey, Burns admitted, “I have no idea what to expect. I’ve been an over-the-road truck driver for almost 30 years, but under the circumstances, with all the disaster and what I’m going to do, yeah, I’m kind of nervous.”

Despite the anxiety, Burns remains focused on the mission ahead. He collected donations yesterday and will continue accepting financial contributions to restock food and supplies while supporting the community in Greeneville. 

For those looking to assist, donations can be sent via Venmo at www.venmo.com/u/thetravelingbison, or you can connect with Burns on the Traveling Bison Facebook page.  Every little bit helps as Burns embarks on this journey to aid those in need.