The devastating tornado that ravaged the city of Joplin, Mo has left at least 116 people dead in the nation’s deadliest tornado in over 60 years according to reports. Houses are piled on top of each other like building blocks, 2 ton trucks thrown into trees like basketballs, and numerous cars crushed like soda cans. Some describe the incident as something out of the movie 2012 that depicted the end of the world. The aftermath has left hundreds homeless without the essential things of life.
The American Red Cross has opened shelters in Missouri and Minnesota. The shelter in Joplin is located at Missouri Southern State University, and the Red Cross is working to provide transportation to the shelter for those in need. The Red Cross is also distributing food, cleanup supplies and comfort kits, and sending health workers to provide immediate care.
Here are the ways you can help…
Donations to AmeriCares can be made online or by phone at 800.486.HELP.
The disaster-response team with Convoy of Hope is heading to Joplin with a truckload of water, snacks and ready-to-eat meals. It is coordinating with local officials to determine what additional supplies should follow and at what locations they can provide essential supplies. Those wanting to help can text the word “CONVOY” to 50555 to make a $10 donation. You can also donate online or by calling 417.823.8998.
The Heart of Missouri United Way has established the Tornado Relief Fund to help victims. Text “JOPLIN” to 864833 to make a $10 donation, or call 573.443.4523.
Heart to Heart International has sent volunteer medical professionals and their mobile medical clinic to the devastated communities in Kansas and Missouri. Heart to Heart also sends hygiene kits for people displaced by the storms, and their care kit assembly instructions can be found here. You can donate or sign up to be a volunteer online or by phone at 913.764.5200.
The Salvation Army has mobilized four feeding kitchens in impacted areas of Joplin. It is also providing relief to other cities that were hit by the weekend tornadoes in Missouri, Minnesota, Kansas and Oklahoma. The Salvation Army’s disaster-relief efforts in Joplin can be supported by texting “JOPLIN” to 80888 to make a $10 donation. You can also donate through their website or by calling 800.SAL.ARMY.
World Vision is now expanding its tornado relief to include the Joplin area. It has sent a team there to determine the most urgent needs. Text “TORNADO” to 20222 to give a $10 donation. You can also donate online or call 888.511.6443 to support World Vision’s effort.
