Responding to Tragedy with Strength (OK Center for Nonprofits)

A message from the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits.  Posted on http://okcenter4nonprofits.wordpress.com/2013/05/21/responding-to-tragedy-with-strength/

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May 19, 2013 and May 20, 2013 will never be forgotten.

Sunday night, an EF-2 tornado tore through Shawnee and Carney, Okla. causing damage and destruction to Pottawotamie County. Edmond was hit first, followed by Harrah, Luther, the Wellston area and Twin Lakes near Shawnee.

Oklahomans hoped for the storms to move on; little did we know, the worst was yet to come.

As you are aware, Moore, has been devastated by another killer tornado that tracked an eerily similar path 14 years ago.

The tornado that struck in Moore, on Monday, classified as a EF4 has been called “the worst tornado in the history of the world” by a meteorologist for KFOR-TV. The scenes of destruction in the aftermath are overwhelming.

Marnie Taylor, President and CEO, of the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits spoke on this devastating tragedy:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events of yesterday’s tornado in Moore, and our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected. We can’t begin to fathom the level of devastation in the area. The loss of loved ones carries the heaviest of tolls. We know that so many families are displaced in this heart breaking situation.

But we also know that Oklahomans are strong and generous, willing to help in tremendous ways. Nonprofit organizations are already part of the first wave of response, and I know that nonprofits will continue to help those in the days, weeks and months ahead. We support the first responders on the scene, and we ask that everyone in Oklahoma answer those calls to meet the needs of all of those affected by the storms.

We are ever thankful to the generosity of the individuals and businesses supporting nonprofits, volunteering their time, and joining together to lend a strong hand to the families who have lost so much. We will continue to stay apprised of the situation and communicate with Oklahoma nonprofits about the emerging needs in Moore.”

Currently, first responders are continuing to work in Moore, Okla., in search and rescue attempts. The Red Cross, Salvation Army, food banks and other nonprofits are among those working.Area organizations should continue to follow the news reports to address needs of those affected. We will try to keep nonprofits informed of events as we receive news.

Want to help?!?

You can:

  • Text “REDCROSS” to 90999 for a $10 donation
  • $10 donations can also be made by texting “Tornado” to 32333 for the Food Bank. A $10 donation will provide 50 meals to our neighbors in need
  • Help the Salvation Army help #Moore. Donate.http://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/uss/eds/aok or text “STORM” to 80888 to donate $10 to the recovery and relief efforts in #Moore, Oklahoma.
  • KFOR-TV (OKC) is still accepting donations for tornado relief throughout the day.

444 E. Britton Rd.Oklahoma City, OK 73114

They can accept up to one truckload from each person donating.

If you have more than a truckload, please take your donations directly to the old Montgomery Ward at Crossroads Mall.

Relief officials are asking for specific donations, including water bottles; Gatorade/energy drinks; diapers; hand towels; hand sanitizer; and sunscreen. No clothing please

Looking for other drop off site. Visit the KFOR website for more information.  http://kfor.com/2013/05/21/tornado-relief-drop-off-locations-around-metro-okc/