GREENFIELD, Iowa — RAGBRAI cyclists donated nearly $50,000 last week to the Greenfield tornado relief fund as they passed through town, according to Greenfield Chamber Main Street and Community Development.
Greenfield was struck by an EF-4 tornado in late May, which killed 4 people and another person in nearby Corning. The damages left Greenfield's RAGBRAI committee with questions to how it would still host tens of thousands of riders in July.
After months of cleanup within the city, and a practice ride-through by organizers, the route was deemed clear and safe for cyclists to zip through.
And last Tuesday, vendors stationed in the city square displayed donation boxes for riders to contribute to the chamber's relief fund.
"To see the outpouring in a physical way was kind of nice to see the people of town," said Gina School of Chamber Main Street and Community Development. "To see that there are so many people that care about town and really do want to help."
School added that between cash and digital donations through Venmo, and selling "Greenfield Strong" T-shirts, the chamber raised way more money than they ever expected.
"Even the outside vendors supported the effort," added Chamber Executive Director Stacie Eshelman.
Money raised for the tornado relief fund during RAGBRAI will go toward supporting residents rebuilding homes, and also assisting in repairing the city's fire station and Adair County Hospital.