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Kokomo tornado victims thankful to be back in their homes for Thanksgiving

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KOKOMO, Ind. -- This Thanksgiving, some Kokomo tornado victims have something a little extra to be thankful for – they’re finally home.

Thursday marks three months since an EF-3 tornado ravaged the city of Kokomo, destroying dozens of homes. Many families have been living in hotels or with other family members since that night. 

But as the holidays approach, some of those families say they're thankful that the damage wasn't worse, and that they're finally able to move back into their homes. 

Ida Carmack moved back into her home last week.

The tornado that hit Kokomo took part of Ida’s home with it.

She said she's still unpacking her things, but is happy to be sleeping in her own bed. She spent the last three months staying with family members. 

“I’m still trying to sort out what I can salvage and what I can’t,” said Carmack. “It was an old house when we bought it 50-some years ago, but it’s still home.”

She also said she has a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. 

“I’m thankful for my family, especially my three boys, and for a roof over my head,” said Carmack.

Heather Hancock said her family is one of the few who have been able to move back into their home on South 17th Street. 

There are still minor repairs to be made, but Hancock said she's grateful she still has a home to host her family for Thanksgiving dinner. And tomorrow they will be celebrating all of the things they have. 

“A day of thankfulness, a day to appreciate each other and the neighbors. A day we’re thankful to god nobody was hurt or killed,” said Hancock.