Help Those Affected By the Recent Tornadoes

Recent tornadoes have caused extensive damage throughout the heartland of America. Five states (Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Alabama & Georgia) have reported deaths, totaling at least 38 victims.

Many local governments and voluntary agencies are providing shelter for disaster survivors displaced by the storms, but the road to recovery will be a long one and further assistance is always welcome.

For those seeking a way to help out our fellow Americans in this time of need, I have provided a list below of some non-profit agencies and the different ways one can contribute.

By Texting:

- Sending "REDCROSS" via text message to 90999 will charge $10 to your next cell phone bill to distribute to the American Red Cross.

- Sending "STORM" via text message to 80888 will charge $10 to your next cell phone bill to distribute to The Salvation Army (You will need to reply "yes" when asked).

Online:

- The American Red Cross' web site offers a search for local Red Cross chapters: redcross.org/where

- Feeding America, a group that works with food banks, offers lists of local food banks and contact information searchable by state or zip code: feedingamerica.org/foodbank-results.aspx

- The Salvation Army can be reached here: donate.salvationarmyusa.org

By Phone:

- The American Red Cross can be reached at (800) RED CROSS (800-733-2767).

- Feeding America can be reached at (800) 771-2303 (National Office).

- The Salvation Army can be reached at (800) SAL-ARMY.

By Mail:

American Red Cross

P.O. Box 37243

Washington, D.C. 20013

The Salvation Army Disaster Relief

P.O. Box 100339

Atlanta, Ga. 30384-0339