On June 9, a valued member of the Garner business community suffered an unspeakable tragedy. An explosion and roof collapse at the ConAgra plant took the lives of three dedicated employees and injured countless others.

The staff and Board of Directors of the Garner Chamber of Commerce extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all who are affected by this tragedy. We ask for God’s healing grace to touch all who are in mourning, all who are recovering, and all who may suffer from the mental and emotional strain of such a devastating event.

Likewise, we commend ConAgra’s leadership and dedication to their employees through their promise to continue paying the staff while assessing the future of the plant.

Sometimes the true character of a community is revealed when faced with adversity. In this regard, we are heartened to hear about various ways the good people of Garner have reached out to ConAgra’s employees and their families. Restaurants have donated meals, grocery stores and wholesale clubs have donated food and supplies, merchants have donated get well baskets. We’ve also learned of donations from churches and church groups, gas stations, apartment communities and more.

As we rally in support of our neighbors, one way that you can help is to make a donation the Chamber of Commerce encourages Garner’s residents and business community to donate to a special fund created for ConAgra employees. For more information on the United Way ConAgra Garner Plant Fund, Please go to www.unitedwaytriangle.org/conagra/. . and make a donation to the United Way ConAgra Foods Garner Plant Fund.

We thank you for your consideration, and ask for your continued prayers and support for ConAgra’s employees.

Respectfully,

Neal Padgett

President, Garner Chamber

Donna Sorrell

Chair, Board of Directors