How to Give or Receive Help After a Mississippi Tornado



CNN

Aid groups are on the ground helping those in need after powerful tornadoes killed dozens in the Mississippi Delta. Here are some ways you can help relief efforts, and ways to get help.

ways to help

Rubicon teams are on the ground in the devastated town of Rolling Fork, performing chainsaw operations and clearing roads for residents and first responders. The group was also formed to help survivors clear trees, tarp roofs and clear debris from their homes.

Devon Miller of the Rubicon team told CNN the team is looking for new volunteers. While the team is led by military veterans, first responders and civilians can also sign up to volunteer.

The Salvation Army (Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi Divisions) has deployed their mess halls to Rolling Fork, Amory, Silver City and Winona, Mississippi. These mobile units distribute ready-to-eat food and water to those in need.

William Trueblood, director of emergency disaster services for the Salvation Army’s ALM division, expects to distribute 16,000 to 20,000 meals a day. Donations and volunteer support will be critical. Volunteers who have not yet been trained by the organization can be paired with certified workers to join the deployed canteen staff.

The Alabama and Mississippi Red Cross established a shelter for displaced persons in Humphreys County at the Greenville Multipurpose Center. The group also provides meals.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy focuses on long-term recovery needs, such as rebuilding homes and mental health services.

In addition to essentials like food and water, Save the Children is delivering child-focused items like hygiene kits and diapers to families in western Mississippi.

ways to get help

MSEMA (Mississippi State Emergency Management Agency) coordinates state and local emergency food and shelter.

If you are facing emotional distress as a result of this tragedy, the experienced counselors at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Distress Line are available 24/7 for emotional support. Call or text 1-800-985-5990.

Northern Mississippi Rural Legal Services (NMRLS) assists residents of Northern Mississippi with legal issues related to property damage. If you need their services, please call their hotline at 1-800-498-1804 between 9:30am and 3:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and press option # 3 for assistance.

The Impact Your World team will update this list as more ways to help become available.

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