Want To Contribute To Heartland Tornado Victims? Here's How You Can Help

Kentucky National Guardsmen engage in a search and rescue mission March 3, in West Liberty, Ky., for survivors after torrential storms and violent winds destroyed much of the community there March 2. Photo by Spc. David Bolton, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, Kentucky National Guard.

As many of us are aware, a series of deadly tornadoes on March 2 and 3 cut devastating swaths of destruction throughout the southern section and heartland of the United States, including in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia. At last count, 39 people were killed by the storms.

Among the more tragic reports emerging from the weekend of unimaginable horror was the death of 15-month-old Indiana toddler Angel Babcock, who lived for two more days after being lifted into the air by one of the deadly vortexes and then dropped in a field. Both of the little girl’s parents and two siblings had also been killed by the tornado.

For those who are looking to help those affected by these storms, State Senator Marty Golden’s office has compiled a list of ways we can contribute financially and help our fellow Americans put their shattered lives back together. According to Golden:

“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