WEST, Texas — Following the massive April 17 explosion in West, Texas that has left one-fifth of the rural town in ruin, David Teel, president & CEO of the Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA) is urging all of the state’s tourist attractions, amusement, theme and waterparks to come together to aid in the relief efforts.

A statement released by TTIA and David Teel said:

“As you are aware, the small town of West, Texas, (20 miles north of Waco) was devastated the evening of April 17, with an explosion at an agriculture fertilizer storage facility located in that town. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the folks in West and the surrounding communities, especially the first responders and those with family in the immediate blast area. We are also thinking about our friends at WestFest, a long-time member of TTIA.

We have compiled a list of ways in which you (our members) can help, if you or your facility are so moved.

• Donate blood and make sure to you tell your blood center that the blood is for the victims of the West, Texas explosion. If you are in the Waco area, Carter Blood Center in Waco will be taking blood donations at 9 a.m.
• Donate to the Texas Tourism Foundation and we will ensure the money is given to the disaster relief/victims fund set up by local businesses. Please put West Texas Explosion in the Donor Comments box. Visit TTIA.org to donate.
• Donate directly to the victims through Point West Bank, 200 West Oak St., West, Texas 76691. Make sure to indicate the donation is for the victims of this explosion.
• Donate to the American Red Cross — Heart of Texas Chapter by visiting this link.
• The Salvation Army is responding to the area with four emergency disaster kitchens. Workers are distributing food and water to victims and emergency responders.

Donations may be made at salvationarmydfw.org

We have been advised by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that the town of West is overflowing with help at this time and the Mayor of West has requested that no one else come to the small community at this time.

Again, our thoughts and prayers are with the community of West and those affected by the explosion at the fertilizer plant Wednesday evening.”

The Texas Rangers MLB baseball club has already announced numerous relief efforts (including a Sunday blood drive) will be going on throughout this weekend’s home stand against the Seattle Mariners. Visit TexasRangers.com for more information.

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