The American Red Cross is beginning large relief efforts in four states — Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri and Arkansas — to help those most affected by the storms. The Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming is sending disaster responders to Kentucky to provide support and recovery assistance. Volunteers will provide safe shelter, comfort and medical and mental health support in the face of one of the most devastating tornado outbreaks in years. 

The Red Cross is moving as quickly as we can to get additional volunteers, supplies and help to the hardest impacted areas. With such widespread damage, we know families will need support for weeks to come and the Red Cross will be there. Red Cross volunteers are also focused on helping to assess the damage in affected communities as areas become accessible. This work will help us to better understand how many families were impacted and what types of help they may need in the coming days, weeks and months. 

Thomas Bethke a volunteer for the Mile High chapter will deploy to Kentucky as a member of the sheltering team.

Pat Kondas a volunteer from the Wyoming Chapter will deploy virtually to Kentucky as a member of the public affairs team.

Darlene Moore a volunteer from Northern Colorado will deploy to Kentucky as a member of the damage assessment team.

Celeste Thompson a volunteer from the Mile High Chapter will deploy to Kentucky as a member of the mass care team

Christopher Wood of the Western Colorado Chapter will deploy to Kentucky as a member of the mass care team. 

Here is How You Can Help

Due to the size, scope and timing of this disaster, the need for donations is huge as we know that hundreds of people, communities and businesses are impacted. You can help people affected by disasters like tornadoes and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. To make a financial donation, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS. 

Our thoughts are with everyone whose lives were changed forever by the horrific tornadoes that touched down this weekend across multiple states in the center of the country. Some communities have suffered significant damage with scores of homes and buildings flattened, and tens of thousands of people left without power. 

Volunteers are available for interviews. If you have questions, please contact Andrea Carlson (303) 548-2165; Andrea.Carlson@redcross.org.