On Friday, March 2, devastating tornadoes ripped across Midwestern and Southern states, causing massive destruction and at least 39 deaths, 21 in Kentucky alone. The dangerous twisters obliterated hundreds of homes.
For those looking to help the disaster victims, there are a number of relief groups and local organizations that need volunteers, or you can pledge a donation to one of the following national organizations that are providing food and shelter.
The American Red Cross is on the ground feeing and sheltering victims of the storm. To make a donation, text "REDCROSS" to 90999. The $10 will be posted on your next cell phone bill. You can also call to make a donation: (800) RED-CROSS (800-733-2767). Alternatively, you can donate on their website at redcross.org. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C. 20013.
The Salvation Army is helping to meet the immediate needs of the disaster survivors. To give support to the victims, text the word “STORM” to 80888 to make an immediate $10 donation via your mobile phone. Or post your contribution on their website at salvationarmyusa.org.
If you want to donate to a food bank, use Feeding America's website to search by state or zip code. Before sending any food, call the food bank to find out which products are needed or if they prefer to receive financial contributions.
If you have been affected by the storm and have lost power, be sure to follow the USDA's food safety tips:
- Always keep meat, poultry, fish, and eggs at or below 40°F and frozen food at or below 0°F.
- Should you loose power, keep the fridge and freezer closed as much as possible to maintain the cold. A closed refrigerator will keep food safe for about 4 hours, and a full freezer with the door closed will keep food safe for about 48 hours (24 hours if only half full.)
- You can also buy dry or block ice to keep food cold. Fifty pounds of dry ice can maintain the temperature in a full 18-cubic-foot freezer for up to two days.
- If your freezer isn't full, pack foods together tightly to help them maintain their cold temperatures.
- Digital, dial, or instant-read thermometers help you know whether your fridge and freezer are still at safe temperatures.
Remember, if your power has been out for more than 4 hours and your fridge temperature is higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit, all food should be discarded except: hard cheeses, processed cheeses, butter, margarine, vinegar-based dressings, fruit juices, unopened canned items, fresh herbs, spices, and any raw vegetables. All meats, fish, and poultry should be tossed and anything that has come into contact with these foods should also be trashed. Always check your food before consumption.
For those survivors who haven't yet registered, please let your friends and family know you are secure by listing yourself and your family on the Red Cross's Safe and Well site.
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