March tornado disasters still affecting Missouri

The tornadoes that occurred when vicious storm system ripped throughout Missouri on March 12 are still causing problems for the people who suffered through them. Families are still in need of adequate clothing, food, shelter and care. The American Red Cross estimated that their response will cost approximately $300,000. However, currently there is only around $100,000 at hand for use in procuring these necessities for the families who needed them.

In Vernon County alone, the tornadic storm system destroyed six homes, four of which were seriously damaged and three of which sustained only minor damage. An estimated $200,000 is needed for the state of Missouri according to the Red Cross. This money will provide a semblance of normalcy to those whose lives have been upturned and routines have become chaos. Peggy Tedlock of the Vernon County Chapter of the American Red Cross, said, "Vernon County is very good to the Red Cross, financially. If it wasn't for their contributions then we wouldn't be able to do the work that we do."

The Vernon County Chapter responded to the scene of the disaster areas soon after the tornado was gone, with the help of the ambulance personnel and Dennis Kimrey, Vernon County emergency management director, who guided the Red Cross workers and evaluators to the field. The funds will not be used to rebuild barns or resupply business items, Tedlock said.

The relief workers were provided with a contact map that had pinpointed the areas that needed to be evaluated. The Red Cross opened eight service centers around the state and dispatched outreach volunteers to affected communities to seek out those who had suffered property damage and other losses following the storms. Red Cross workers from throughout Missouri have provided financial assistance and other disaster relief services to nearly 450 families in the affected areas. The assistance included 112 individuals who were provided with on the scene mental health counseling; and more than 20,136 meals served and snacks given to storm victims.

Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to the local American Red Cross chapter at 201 East Cherry St., Suite 203, Nevada, MO 647672