Photograph by KOMUnews on Flickr
Missourians are no strangers to tornadoes. Almost a month ago, St. Louis was struck by the most devastating tornado system in recent memory. Yesterday, over a half-mile wide tornado ripped through the heart of Joplin, leaving at least 89 dead and hundreds more crying for help. Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon called a state of emergency Sunday night. The relief effort has begun, and Joplin needs all the help it can get. Here are a few ways you can lend a hand:
Make a donation:
- The American Red Cross offers three ways to make donations. First is through their website at redcross-ozarks.org, second is by phone at 866-206-0256, and third is by mail. Send donations to 1545 Northwest Bypass, Springfield, Mo., 65803. You can also text “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Standard data and messaging rates apply.
- For donation or volunteering opportunities with the United Way, call United Way Missouri 2-1-1 at 1-800-427-4626.
-Convoy of Hope, a Springfield-based disaster relief organization, is currently accepting donations on their website at convoyofhope.org. Text “convoy” to 50555 to make a $10 donation. Standard data and messaging rates apply.
-The Salvation Army is accepting food and clothing donations at their Springfield locations. Money donations can be sent to the Salvation Army at P.O. Box 9685, Springfield, Mo., 65801-9685. Mark donations as “Joplin Relief” to specify the donation.
- Habitat for Humanity is accepting donations of blankets, water, nonperishable food, and medical supplies in Springfield at 2410 S. Scenic. They are also accepting pet food and crates for pets in Joplin.
Volunteer:
- Emergency Management is asking volunteers to stay clear of the area for first response. However, in the coming days more volunteers may be needed. Convoy of Hope will post updates when they need more volunteers.
-The Salvation Army has set up an incident command center in Joplin. To volunteer, call 417-624-4528.
- The Red Cross is deferring volunteers with medical expertise to register at showmeresponse.org.
For more information:
- The State Emergency Management Agency has more information regarding donations and volunteering.
- You can also visit safeandwell.org, an online registry ran by the Red Cross to help families and friends find loved ones.
- More information and links can be found here on ozarksfirst.com.
- Check out the Joplin recovery effort Facebook page.
Know of other ways to help? Share them in the comments.
