How to Help Tornado Survivors in the South

Tornadoes caused massive destruction throughout Alabama and other parts of the southern United States last week. Here are some ways to help.

By Kathryn Hawkins. Posted on May 02 2011

The violent tornadoes and storms that swept the southern United States last week took more than 340 lives, and have left thousands homeless, their possessions destroyed. This natural disaster will take a long time for the region to recover from, but the process will go much more easily with help from kind and concerned strangers like you. Here are some ways you can help.

Volunteer. If you have the time and ability to travel to a tornado-damaged area in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, or any of the other southern states affected by the 266 tornadoes in April 27th, residents would welcome your assistance. Volunteers are needed to clean up and organize storm debris throughout the region. To help, contact a regional branch of United Way in a storm-affected region to learn more about local volunteering opportunities.

Donate food or clothing. Thousands of families have nothing but the clothes on their backs since the tornadoes destroyed their homes. Donations of canned and dry food, gently worn clothes, and even children’s toys and diapers can make a huge difference to these families. Alabama Possible has a list of locations within the state where donations can be delivered.

Make a financial contribution. Many non-profit organizations are mobilizing their forces to help families affected by the tornadoes get back on their feet as quickly as possible—and to do their job effectively, they need as much financial assistance as they can get. Consider making an online donation to United Way of West Alabama, The American Red Cross, or Serve Alabama.

Filed under: Non-Profits,

Liked this? You'll love these, too:

Raspberry Pi: The $25 Computer

A new computer is the size of a human thumb, and will retail for $25. Read More
Pilots N Paws Matches Volunteer Pilots with Animal Rescuers

The nonprofit group Pilots N Paws saves animals' lives by transporting them cross-country to new foster homes. Read More
Dave Cornwaithe Travels Mississippi River by Stand-Up Paddleboard

Dave Cornwaithe is attempting to complete 25 separate 1,000 mile journeys without using motorized transportation, in the Expedition 1000. Read More
9-Year-Old Rachel Beckwith’s Final Wish Inspires Thousands to Give

For her 9th birthday, Rachel Beckwith asked for donations to a charity to promote clean water around the world. After her tragic death in a car accident, thousands have given to her cause. Read More
Jon Bon Jovi Opens Pay-What-You-Want Restaurant, The Soul Kitchen

Rocker Jon Bon Jovi has opened a pay-what-you-want restaurant in Red Bank, New Jersey. Read More