American Red Cross volunteers are helping residents after severe weather struck southern Minnesota near the town of Taopi in Mower County on Tuesday, April 12. Following disasters, the Red Cross connects with those affected and provides emergency assistance, such as food, relief items like toiletries, health and mental health services, and one-on-one support to connect people to available recovery assistance. 

“Our hearts go out to our neighbors who were impacted by this tornado,” said Melanie Tschida, Executive Director for the American Red Cross serving Southeast Minnesota. “Because these disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, please help stay safe by following severe weather alerts and be prepared to seek safe shelter if necessary.” 

Learn more, stay safePeople can also download the free Red Cross Emergency App for safety tips, severe weather alerts and a home fire quiz. For children, the Monster Guard App is a fun, interactive game that teaches home safety and fire prevention. Download the apps by searching “American Red Cross” in your mobile app store or by going to redcross.org/apps. 

Get involvedHelp the American Red Cross deliver its lifesaving mission nationwide. To support our lifesaving work, please consider volunteering or donating by visiting redcross.org/mndaks, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift.