Tornado Disaster Relief

It has been nearly a week since tornadoes ravaged our state and victims of the storms are still in need of basic necessities.

I talked to the businesses here in Crestline Village that are serving as drop-off spots for donations to tornado victims to find out what items they are accepting.

Anna, the owner of Grandmother's Joy has posted a complete list of needed items but she also stressed the need for particular items such as garbage bags, can openers, medical supplies such as bandages and antiseptics, toiletries and feminine hygiene products.

Snoozy's Kids is accepting donations, particularly non-perishable goods, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, tarps, baby supplies, toys and other items to meet the immediate needs of children and families affected by the tornadoes.

You can also drop off donations at the Realty South office on Euclid Avenue. Items needed in particular include tarps and clothing in large sizes. Katherine at Reality South said that monetary donations are also appreciated for the purchase of relief supplies.

The Pants Store is another drop location accepting any donated items during their regular hours. Donations will be sent to a different city affected by the storms each week.

The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce has a list of other donation drop-off points at Mountain Brook businesses and religious organizations here.

Other ways to donate:

Donate to the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or text “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation (after you send the text, you will receive a reply asking if you would like to specify your gift for tornado relief)

To support The Salvation Army by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY or text “GIVE” to 80888 to make a $10 donation.

You can donate to the United Way of Central Alabama during the 22 hour United Way Tornado Relief Telethon from 4 a.m. CDT, Wednesday, May 4 to 2 a.m. CST, Thursday, May 5.
Call 1-855- 205-HELP/1-855-205-4357. (Note: The phone line will only be active during the Telethon, 4 a.m. CDT, Wednesday May 4 to 2 a.m. CDT Thursday, May 5)
or online here. You can also text TORNADO to 50555 to donate $10.

Donate to the United Way of West Alabama by calling 205-345-6640 during regular business hours to process a donation over the phone or online here.

For volunteer opportunities, check out Hands On Birmingham.

Amanda