Nashville Volunteers Clear Ice Storm Damage in 3 Weeks

Nashville is turning a devastating ice storm into a powerful story of community action.

Mayor Freddie O'Connell stood beside a damaged tree in a North Nashville park this week with a simple message: the city needs volunteers who can operate chainsaws. After a brutal winter ice storm left the entire county covered in fallen branches and debris, Nashville is asking neighbors to help neighbors get back on their feet.

The scale is massive. Nashville's transportation department has already received 1,200 requests for debris removal, and that number keeps growing. Deputy Director Phillip Jones, who has worked for the city for 32 years, called it probably the biggest countywide impact he's ever seen.

But Nashville isn't facing this alone. The city partnered with United Way's Hands On division to coordinate volunteer efforts across the county.

"Volunteers are essential," said Lori Shinton with United Way of Greater Nashville. "The more volunteers we have now, the faster we can assess that damage, schedule debris removal, get help to the right places."

The plan is straightforward. Volunteers will go door to door helping residents move debris to the curb. Once it's curbside, the city's transportation department takes over, working with FEMA to weigh, remove, chip and mulch everything. FEMA reimbursement will help cover the costs of this enormous cleanup.

Anyone can help, even if they don't have a chainsaw. The city says a few hours of time can make a meaningful difference for families still dealing with storm damage.

The Ripple Effect

This cleanup effort shows what happens when government, nonprofits and everyday citizens work together. Beyond just removing debris, volunteers are creating connections between neighbors and speeding up recovery for families who might otherwise wait weeks for help.

The city has also set up multiple support systems for residents who need assistance beyond debris removal. Those who can't afford repairs can request help, and households facing financial strain can apply for up to $2,000 in rent and mortgage support.

Officials expect the entire cleanup to take two or three weeks with volunteer help. Hands On Nashville is hosting a community wide cleanup day this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for anyone who wants to pitch in.

Nashville is proving that the worst storms bring out the best in people.