Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Rolla Provides Vital Support to Tornado Survivors

Ollie Strange playing with a service dog at the Multi-Agency Resource Center.

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Ollie Strange, 16, takes time to play with Emma, a service dog who belongs to Red Cross volunteer Jacob Eaves, at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Rolla, MO. Her family’s house was destroyed by a tornado, and they came to the MARC for recovery assistance from the Red Cross and other agencies. (Red Cross photo by Kate Walters)

Red Cross volunteer gives a Build-A-Bear stuffed toy to man in a wheelchair.

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William Lavigne receives a Build-A-Bear stuffed toy from a Red Cross volunteer while he was at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Rolla, MO that provided recovery assistance after a tornado struck the area. (Red Cross photo by Kate Walters)

Red Cross volunteer Carol Roam sitting at a table with a tablet and notepad.

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Red Cross volunteer Carol Roam helps at the Multi-Agency Resource Center in Rolla, MO for those recovering from a tornado the struck the area. (Red Cross photo by Kate Walters)

March 26, 2025

By Kate Walters, American Red Cross

The Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC), held at the Missouri S&T Fitness Center, drew tornado-affected residents from Phelps and Pulaski Counties. The event brought together a wide range of organizations offering much-needed resources and support for those recovering from the devastating March storms.

Attendees received assistance from numerous agencies. The American Red Cross distributed emergency supplies and registered residents for ongoing support.

The Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief team served up hot meals, while the Salvation Army provided drinks and treats.

Other partners on site included AmeriCorps, Family Counseling Center, Legal Services of Missouri, the Missouri Departments of Commerce and Insurance, Health and Senior Services, and Social Services, the Humane Society of Missouri, Samaritan’s Purse, and SEMA Emergency Human Services, among others.

By the end of the day, 87 families representing 227 individuals had been served.

The event marked the beginning of the recovery process for many families affected by the tornadoes in Phelps and Pulaski Counties. Over 20 Red Cross volunteers were on hand, working in collaboration with state, local, and nonprofit partners to support the affected communities.

“The Red Cross team was exceptional,” one organizer shared. “The caseworkers and distribution staff did an amazing job, despite the high turnout.”

State officials visited the site and expressed strong support for the operation. Organizers are optimistic about continued success across Missouri and Arkansas.