The Greater Valley Area came together in such a way this past week to help their neighbors in need that it left us speechless. The people of this community donated water, food, bedding and anything else they could think of to help the victims in Lee County and Talbotton.

In less than 48 hours after the deadliest tornado in the U.S. since 2013 ripped through east Alabama, killing 23 people, the call from the Chambers County School District went out.

From early Monday morning until Tuesday afternoon, residents from the area gave and gave. They gave so much that the school was able to fill two 53-foot semi-tractor trailers to drive to Lee County.

Our hats are off to you Chambers County — no matter what anybody says, that is impressive. It’s not only remarkable, but it shows the heart, kindness and determination of this area to help those in need. Those are the types of stories we are proud as a news organization to write.

As we turn to the second week of the tornado saga, our neighbors in Lee County have been subject to national attention with the president making a stop, national media outlets flooding the streets and constant attention from Gov. Kay Ivey.  However, it’s likely now that the national media lights will probably be turned off of Lee County. President Donald Trump has returned to running the country and Ivey has returned to running Alabama.

The victims of Lee County have been flooded with good to help them get through the horrific situation that left by the tornado, but now, it’s time for them to attempt to pick up the pieces of a life they once knew before the storm.

We can still help to make sure they don’t do it alone. Just because the news isn’t on the front page of every newspaper or top story on television broadcasts doesn’t mean those people aren’t in need any longer.

They will need help for weeks, months and possibly years after this incident.

If you’re willing and able to help, the need will still be there. Let’s all work to keep that giving spirit in Chambers County alive and make sure we do all we can for those who have suffered through a terrible tragedy.