Operation BBQ Relief: Oklahoma Pork Producers Feed Tornado Torn Communities

The tornado that swept through Holdenville killed two people and damaged homes and farms. On Monday, the focus shifted from disaster recovery to disaster relief.

Local pork producer Richard Robinson joined the community to help out. He owns 13 farms in the area, one that sustained some damage. 

"The feed tanks, they got pushed out to the fields," Robinson said. "We were pretty fortunate just that little bit happened."

Robinson also owns property in Holdenville at the corner of Highways 270 and 48. So he opened his property for volunteers to help those in need.

The Oklahoma Pork Council teamed up with Newman's Firehouse BBQ to serve 1,600 free pork sandwiches to the community. This area is the second largest pig farming community in the state behind western Oklahoma. 

Other volunteers group showed up. 

Local businesses, Lowes and the community brought in cleaning supplies, water, non perishable food, blankets and tarps for anyone who needed it.

A mobile health unit was set up to give free tetanus shots.

"It's been a real community get together and outpouring from different people that have helped out Holdenville," said Robinson. "It's not me, it's the other people that's come here, just that comradery of the community."

The relief will continue on Tuesday in Sulphur. The Oklahoma Pork Council, Operation BBQ Relief and Newman's Firehouse BBQ will be offering 800 free pork meals starting at 11 a.m. at the Walmart in Sulphur, Oklahoma, 2705 W Broadway Ave, Sulphur, OK 73086.