Kevin Marshall's America
Photo: Butch Dill, Associated Press
Last week, a record 178 tornadoes ravaged areas of the South and claimed over 300 lives and counting. It was the third deadliest tornado outbreak on record and the worst natural disaster to hit our nation since Katrina.
In addition to the tornadoes, the Southern States were also victims of timing. The disaster was overshadowed by first the Royal Wedding, then the death of Osama bin Laden. While aid is coming to the South, the recovery process will be arduous and a harsh burden on those so unfairly stripped of everything they hold dear.
It’s important that we take the time during what’s been a very busy (and at times strange) news cycle to put the focus back where it’s needed. There’s a few ways you can help:
- Donate to the American Red Cross
- Volunteer your time to help aid in the recovery effort
- text “REDCROSS” to 90999 ($10 donation added to your phone bill)
Understandably, the people down there are shaken and many of them worry they’ve been forgotten these past several days, and they have. Let’s right that wrong.
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6 Responses to Aid, effort needed for stricken Southern States
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thank you for this. we are in urgent need of blankets, batteries, water, non-perishable food (especially jars of baby food and formula), diapers, baby wipes, pet food, camping equipment and toiletries.
i don’t know how many readers you have in other states, but if anyone is in the new orleans area, they can come out to see us at the kid rock congregation booth on sunday at the new orleans jazz festival to donate supplies. the kid himself is supposed to stop by the booth and help out before he takes the stage, so maybe that is a good incentive to get people to donate.
thanks again…there are families who feel truly forgotten and it’s good to know that there are people up north who care.
Kevin, definitely on my wavelength today. Prior to seeing this post, I was trying to put a very bad day for myself into perspective while talking to someone.
I actually mentioned Alabama and mentioned how in 2008, I read an article about parts of Alabama that $4 gas prices meant going to work created a LOSS due to travel necessary to get to the job.
We discussed how sometimes it’s worth it to rebuild elsewhere, but I pointed out how difficult that is. It’s hard for someone who’s never tried to really grasp, but I can attest that words cannot describe just how hard it is. It’s one of those things where a person needs to weigh what is more important…having a more secure future or having a more secure present moment. Even if you stay domestic in the country, you might *still* be the outsider, considered an immigrant.
Alabama, the US has not forgotten about you. It’s tough for us, too. We all hope the federal government stepping in provides some very much so needed support. Bridget, it was very helpful for you to post specific items needed. I hope anyone who has extras laying around donates them to the Red Cross. I know you can specify where you want funds to be received with the Red Cross – I did exactly that when I had more funds and donated my money earmarked for Katrina victims. Not sure about goods, but a Red Cross associate will know.
It is my understanding the American Red Cross is always a “direct source” for relief in this country, so I will be making a donation today.
I feel terrible for the people, but I feel worse for the animals who are suffering or starving. Many of these shelters were shacks to begin with, so imagine the additional impact. Please also consider donating to the http://www.aspca.org. I checked their site and, as usual, they are ON THE SCENE helping these pathetic animals.
These poor people. they have been overshadowed. i couldnt believe the devastation, lives lost, homes destroyed right in our own country and we had to be subjected to around the clock coverage of that wedding. unbelievable.
Davelyn,
I agree with you. Ditzing and fritzing around with nonsense.
But did you guys SEE those hats?!