Relief efforts continue to support the survivors of the March 3rd tornado in Lee County, Alabama. We’ve compiled a list of ways you can help. We’ve also included assistance that is available.
TO DONATE FINANCIAL ASSITANCE
American Red Cross
To donate, text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, which helps people affected by disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires and tornadoes.
Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. All purchases must be authorized by account holder. Must be 18 years of age or have parental permission to participate. Message and Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to 90999 to STOP. Text HELP to 90999 for HELP.
Community Foundation of East Alabama. Donate by clicking here.
Alabama Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund (GERF) Donate by clicking here.
TO VOLUNTEER
Become a Red Cross volunteer at http://redcross.org/volunteer
TO RECEIVE ASSISTANCE
Alabama’s Red Cross has opened an Emergency Shelter and two Emergency Aid Stations.
THE AUBURN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH SHELTER
The post-landfall shelter is open for any tornado victims who need a safe place to stay.
Shelter Location:
137 S. Gay St. Auburn, AL 36830 – Open as of March 7, 2019 at 6 p.m. CST
WHAT TO PACK Those who plan to come to a Red Cross shelter and have access to personal items and have the time to pack:
Should Bring: Glasses, Medications, Your child’s stuffed animal or favorite blanket, An emergency kit
Should Not Bring: Alcoholic beverages, Illegal drugs, Weapons
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PETS If it is not safe for you to stay home, it is not safe for your pet either. However, to maintain a safe and healthy environment in our shelters, companion pets are not allowed. Please locate a pet-friendly shelter for your pet before coming to a Red Cross shelter. Service animals are always welcome in Red Cross shelters.
The fastest way to find an open shelter is to visit redcross.org or view open shelters through the Red Cross Emergency App. If you don’t have access to a computer or smart phone, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
EMERGENCY AID STATIONS
A Red Cross Emergency Aid Station serves as a fixed location for disaster clients to access various needs. It is comprised of disaster mental health, health services and spiritual care volunteers and staff. Additionally, the station provides disaster supplies, to include comfort kits and cleaning supplies. Blood pressure checks, health literature and eye glass vouchers will be made available to clients, as needed.
Emergency Aid Station Locations:
11186 AL Hwy 51, Opelika, AL, 36804– Opened daily, 10 a.m. CST to Dark
32 Lee Rd. 562, Smiths Station, 36877– Opened daily, 10 a.m. CST to Dark
Returning Home Safely: If you had to leave your home, return only when local authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
•Do not cut or walk past colored tape that was placed over doors or windows to mark damaged areas unless you have been told that it is safe to do so. If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter it until you get more information, advice and instructions from your local authorities.
•If you have children, leave them with a relative or friend while you conduct your first inspection of your home after the disaster. The site may be unsafe for children and seeing the damage first-hand may upset them even more and cause long-term effects, including nightmares.
•Do not enter a building until it has been inspected for damage to the electrical system, gas lines, septic systems, and water lines or wells. Wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, rubber boots, and masks to protect you from debris and airborne particles, e.g., mold and dust.
The Red Cross does not need donated items or household goods. In fact, the Lee County community has been so generous, donated items have taken over some of the spaces that would be allotted for people in need of safe shelter.
People who have lost their homes do not need clothing and household items – they have no home to take them to and no place to store these items. Financial donations are the best way to help the Red Cross serve our neighbors.
