Individuals and organizations throughout Texas County are assisting victims in Joplin, where a tornado ripped through the southwest Missouri community Sunday evening.
Officals said Monday afternoon there are 116 confirmed deaths. Seven people have been saved by search and rescue efforts. A door-to-door search is underway.
City Manger Mark Rohr told the Joplin Globe that the tornado cut a path six miles long and half a mile wide through the town.
Members of the Texas County Sheriff’s Department arrived in Joplin around 2:30 a.m., according to Lt. Melissa Dunn. She was accompanied by deputies Dusty Jones, Phil Viscioni and Travis Davis.
The sheriff’s department responded after Sheriff Carl Watson received a call from Archie Dunn, sheriff of Jasper County. Watson and Dunn are retired from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and were stationed together in Mountain Gove.
“Of course, they need all the help they can get,” Watson said. “Our people will probably help with search and rescue, traffic control – whatever they need to do.”
Dr. Schaun Flaim and Dr. Gretchen Price of Texas County Memorial Hospital are assisting those with medical concerns in the area. St. John’s hospital was directly hit. More than 1,000 people have been transported to area hospitals since the storm hit.
More than 1,150 people have been treated for injuries since the tornado hit at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.
TCMH media relations director Joleen Durham said the hospital sent an ambulance Sunday to assist, but it was sent back. Authorities said they had plenty of ambulances. TCMH is working with the state’s emergency aid department and has provided a list of available supplies, Durham said.
Officials in Joplin told Durham the biggest need is physicians and critical care nurses.
Chainsaw and feeding teams from the Texas County Baptist Association have been activated and are awaiting a departure time.
The Houston Area Chamber of Commerce is collecting items through 5 p.m. Thursday to send to the area. Director Sharon Horbyk said bottled water, food, blankets, toiletries and clothing are needed. They must be in labeled boxes. They can be dropped off at the chamber office or First Baptist Church in Houston.
The Animal Shelter of Texas County is collecting donations to assist displaced pets. Shelter manager Marsha Martin said there was a need for puppy chow, pet crates, blankets, towels and bottled water. Those able to assist can drop off items at the shelter or call 417-967-0700.
Those wishing to assist Joplin tornado victims financially cantext REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10.
To locate a loved one, visit the Safe and Wellwebsite.
Nurses or doctors looking to help can call (417) 832-9500 forthe Greater Ozarks chapter of the Red Cross.
Missourians who need disaster information, shelter informationor referrals are urged to call 211.
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