Photo Credit: Reuters/Richard Rowe

Thoughts and prayers go out to the community of Moore, Oklahoma who faced a massive EF-4 two mile wide tornado yesterday on May 20th, 2013 and other communities that have recently faced tornado damage as well. As reports come in of the devastating damage and loss, our hearts go out to all the tornado victims and the challenges that they face. If you are looking for ways to help, here are a few resources.

• American Red Cross: The Red Cross have set up shelters, are providing meals and offering assistance in a number of ways. Donate online or you can also text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10. If you are looking for a missing friend or relative, you can check on their well-being at Safe and Well. Just keep in mind that many people may have not yet had the chance or resources to list themselves yet.
• Salvation Army: Disaster Relief teams are on site. (donate online, by mail or by phone).
• Humane Society: Helping the animals affected by the tornado (donate online).
• Americares: AmeriCares is deploying an emergency response team to Oklahoma City to coordinate deliveries of relief supplies and medical aid for tornado survivors (donate online).
• Convoy for Hope – On the scene with truckloads of supplies (donate online) (Thanks Stacey & Michelle!)
• Photo/Document recovery: A Facebook group has been started to help those in Oklahoma recover lost photos and documents.

There will be many more resources available to help, so keep in mind that only a few are listed here. And of course, another great way to help is through the power of prayer.

On a personal note: As we approach the 2-year anniversary of the tornado here in Joplin, we know all to well the heartbreak and loss the Moore community is facing. The images of the Moore tornado are eerily similar to the Joplin tornado in the horrendous scope of damage and utter destruction. Joplin has sent a team of firefighters and police officers to help with the search & rescue, in cleanup and in any way they can help. We received a tremendous amount of help and support ourselves  here in Joplin and I know we all wish to help and pay it forward in any way possible. ♥