Update on Storm Relief Efforts
On Wednesday, May 22, 2019, a powerful tornado ripped through Mid-Missouri, affecting Jefferson City, Eldon and the surrounding areas. This storm was soon followed by flooding throughout the state. Mother Nature has taken a toll on our Capitol City and Mid-Missouri as a whole, but we remain strong in the face of adversity.
I want to thank all the emergency responders, law enforcement, utility workers and volunteers who have been on the frontline, battling these storms and helping keep people safe. It is truly inspiring to see so many individuals come together to help during these difficult times.
That said, work remains to be done. The United Way continues to need volunteers to help with cleanup efforts, however, the efforts appear to be wrapping up and are expected to come to a close by Sunday, June 2. While the cleanup effort is winding down, donations to help with long-term recovery are still needed. Financial donations can be made online to the United Way of Central Missouri Disaster Recovery Fund, or by texting MIDMO to 41444 as well as through the American Red Cross website.
Material donations are also needed to help those impacted by the storms. Donations can be brought to Capital West Christian Event Center, 1315 Fairgrounds Road, Jefferson City, MO between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day until further notice. Items requested include, but are not limited to:
- Bath and hand towels;
- Hand and body soap as well as shampoo and conditioner;
- Bedsheets, pillows and blankets;
- Cleaning supplies, such as gloves, sponges, towels and heavy-duty trash bags;
- Clean clothes, including jeans, shirts, underwear and socks; and
- Cooking supplies, such as disposable forks, knives, spoons, plates, bowls and cups.
For a complete list of the needed supplies, please visit the United Way of Central Missouri’s website. Those impacted by the storm are encouraged to call 211 for assistance.
Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.