SIKESTON — Following strong storms and tornadoes over the last couple of days, an American Red Cross shelter remains open in Southeast Missouri for those impacted by the severe weather. It was opened Sunday night and 31 individuals stayed there overnight.
- YMCA, 511 Taylor St., Sikeston, MO 63801
The Red Cross is also distributing water, snacks and emergency clean-up supplies to those in impacted areas.
The role of the Red Cross in any disaster is to focus on addressing the immediate needs of those affected. The Red Cross is coordinating with community, government, and emergency management officials to determine where and when additional assistance is needed.
Identification and/or proof of residency is NOT required to be admitted to a Red Cross shelter.
Individuals and families are encouraged to bring the following items with them:
- clothing for a few days
- bedding
- toiletries
- essential medication
- a child’s stuffed animal, blanket or other items for your children
American Red Cross services are free and available to all regardless of race, religious beliefs, nationality, or citizenship status.
Red Cross Responders
In addition to sheltering, our teams are conducting preliminary damage assessments to determine the extent of the damage and community assistance needs. Teams are also distributing water, snacks and emergency supplies to the impacted communities. Currently, approximately 80 Red Cross disasters workers are assisting in the response.
For Assistance:
Anyone needing assistance is asked to call the Red Cross at 1-800-Red-Cross or go to www.redcross.org.
How to help:
Financial assistance needed:
For individuals wishing to assist the Red Cross in responding to community disasters, a financial donation is best. This allows the Red Cross to be flexible in using the funds to directly address the needs of those affected. To donate, call 1-800 RED CROSS or donate online at www.redcross.org
Volunteer needed:
The Red Cross needs more disaster response volunteers to assist following home fires and other local disasters. If interested, please click “learn more” and fill out our form at www.redcross.org/joinnow.
For the latest information on Red Cross relief efforts in Arkansas, please follow @ArkRedCross on Facebook or Twitter.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.
For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.