The devastating, history-making tornadoes that hit Moore, OK on May 9, 1999 took 41 lives.
As of this morning, at least 24 deaths (7 of which are children) have been reported from the EF4 tornadoes that once again ripped through Moore.
There are no words that can express our sadness for our neighboring state to the north.
If you’d like to help, USA Today has posted a list of organizations that are already at work:
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has several shelters open in Oklahoma and Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicles have begun delivering hot meals throughout the affected areas. The Red Cross is also working to link loved ones in Moore who are OK through a website called Safe and Well. Text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, donate online, or donate by phone at 1-800-RED CROSS.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is activating disaster response teams and mobile feeding units to help residents and rescuers in Moore, OK., as well as in other locations in the Plains and the Midwest that were impacted by tornadoes. Donate online or text STORM to 80888 to contribute $10 to the Salvation Army’s relief efforts or make a donation by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY. If you’re sending a check make sure you put the words “Oklahoma Tornado Relief” on the check, and mail it to: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 12600, Oklahoma City, OK., 73157.
Operation USA
Los Angeles-based international relief agency Operation USA announced it’s providing emergency aid where needed to community-based health organizations across Oklahoma. Donate online, by phone at 1-800-678-7255, or by check made out to Operation USA, 7421 Beverly Blvd., PH, Los Angeles, CA 90036. You can also donate $10 by texting AID to 50555. Corporate donations of bulk quantities of disaster-appropriate supplies are also being requested.
Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief
Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief says it has deployed at least 80 volunteers to respond to severe weather in Oklahoma. Those interested in helping can make a tax-deductible donation to the BGCO’s Disaster Relief ministry online or call (405) 942-3800. You may also send checks to: BGCO Attn: Disaster Relief 3800 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73112.
Samaritan’s Purse Mobile Unit – On Site Help
Samaritan’s Purse is responding to the damage in Oklahoma after several tornadoes tore through Shawnee and Moore, OK. Meals and sleeping quarters will be provided. Local volunteers are also welcome. Sign up here to help with clearing the debris field, roof taping, and chainsaw work (chainsaw skills aren’t required). Volunteers need to bring an air mattress or cot, sleeping bag or sheets, towels, and personal hygiene items.
