How to Help Western Kentucky Tornado Victims

Kentucky experienced the worst tornado event in state history late Friday night, flattening towns across western reaches of the commonwealth and killing more than 80 people.

WxChasing- Brandon Clement @bclemms

This pretty much sums it up in :19. #Mayfield #MayfieldTornado #KyWx #WX

“I know our death toll is already above 80, likely over 100—by far the most devastating tornado event we've ever seen,” Governor Andy Beshear told NPR’s Weekend Edition this morning.

As cleanup efforts continue—and almost 52,000 people remain without power—here are ways to support the region’s long road ahead to recovery. (And stay out of impacted areas to ensure first responders are able to do their jobs properly!)

First and foremost, if you can, donate blood. Here’s a map of where and when mobile blood drives are happening over the next couple of weeks.

Teri Carter @teri_atthepaper

Our good friends and neighbors are experienced with disaster relief, having been on the ground during Katrina and other catastrophes. They are going to Western KY this week. If you are looking for place to donate, you can trust these folks. Venmo and PayPal below. ❤️🙏🏼

Kentuckians for the Commonwealth is keeping a running document with ways to help on a county-by-county basis, from direct mutual aid in Marshall County to (safely!) expressing interest in volunteering in Muhlenberg County. The official Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief fund set up by Gov. Beshear is another option, or consider donating through the Community Foundation of Western Kentucky.

Governor Andy Beshear @GovAndyBeshear

So many people are stepping up to help Kentuckians. As of this morning, we've received 7,479 donations totaling $829,085. If you would like to help our families with relief and recovery, please visit TeamWKYReliefFund.ky.gov. Every dollar will make a difference. #TogetherKy

teamwkyrelieffund.ky.govTeam Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund

Queer Kentucky is raising funds for LGBTQ+ individuals impacted in Western Kentucky, and if you’ve been displaced by the storm, Kentucky State Parks are willing to take in anyone who needs housing at their lodges. A “Storm Damage 12.10.21” Facebook group has been set up for individuals to share needs and on-the-ground resources.

KEDC @KEDC1

We are accepting donations for the Western KY storm victims. You can drop it off at our Ashland and Lexington offices. We plan to deliver Monday the 20th. It’s Christmas time- the time for giving! #KYStrong

School districts across Eastern Kentucky are “stuffing buses” with supplies to deliver to those in need. Here’s what each district is collecting, from pillows to personal hygiene items:

Rowan County Schools @RowanSchools

Chef Jose Andres’ team from World Central Kitchen is providing meals for those impacted. Here’s a way to donate directly to their tornado relief efforts.

Operation BBQ Relief is also on the way to Mayfield and accepting donations.

World Central Kitchen @WCKitchen

Fresh meals heading out in Kentucky today! Working with local partners, our team is going into communities hit hard by the tornadoes with lunch for anyone in need. Thanks to LEE Initiative, Ramiro’s, Biscuit Love & Big Al’s Deli for jumping in to support! #ChefsForKentucky

Our friends at Eastern Kentucky Mutual Aid and Hood to the Holler are updating Twitter threads in real-time about the most urgent community needs. Consider following them for the most up-to-date ways to help.

Hood To The Holler @hoodtotheholler

TAYLOR COUNTY NEEDS!

And, finally, a general suggestion for how to best assist recovery efforts, from a former FEMA administrator:

Craig @WCraigFugate

Want to help in the aftermath of the tornado outbreak? Financial (cash) contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. fema.gov/assistance/vol…