Midwest Tornadoes: Storms Hit Oklahoma, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska (How You Can Help)

Midwest Tornadoes: How You Can Help

More than 120 tornadoes swept across Oklahoma, Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska this weekend, killing at least five people, the Associated Press reports.

In Wichita, Kan., alone officials predict damages could be as high as $283 million, according to the Associated Press.

Yvonne Tucker, a Wichita resident, told the news source that despite finding shelter from the storm, the aftermath was surreal.

"I didn't think it was that bad until I walked down my street and everything is gone," Tucker said. "I don't know what to do. I don't know where to go. I've seen it on TV, but when it happens to you it is unreal."

Find ways to help the victims of the tornadoes below:

OKLAHOMA

Red Cross of Central Oklahoma
The Central Oklahoma Red Cross has set up emergency shelters in response to the tornadoes, and is accepting monetary donations as the organization begins its rebuilding. Red Cross is also reaching people via Twitter, tweeting Sunday that "shelters are open - mobile feeding has begun for people affected by last night's tornadoes in the midwest."

To donate to Red Cross, click here.

Red Cross also accepts text donations -- to donate $10 text RED CROSS to 90999

Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma
The Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma has a disaster relief team that trains volunteers to respond to emergencies around the state -- sometimes volunteering for a week at a time. The group prepares meals, clears debris, assists with child care and includes a physician on every response team.

To get involved with Baptist General or to donate, click here.

KANSAS

United Way of the Plains
United Way of the Plains in Kansas is posting updates about volunteers needed and ways to help in response to the weekend's tornadoes. Currently, damage assessment is still being conducted, but those hoping to volunteer or those looking for help can call 211 to get updates.

To donate to United Way, click here.

Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon, an organization that deploys veterans to help with disaster relief, has sent a team to Wichita to help with clearing debris and assisting with security, according to its blog. The organization gives 100 percent of donated money directly to the field work it does.

To donate to Team Rubicon, click here.

IOWA

AmeriCares
An international emergency response organization, AmeriCares provides relief by sending medical supplies as a first response, aid for survivors of disasters, restoration of damages and works toward long-term building plans.

To donate to AmeriCares, click here.

Red Cross
Red Cross has put together mobile response vehicles in Iowa as well, according to ncnewspress.com. Ed Schwartz of the Red Cross told the news source the organization provides more than just food and water -- but focuses also on the mental and spiritual needs of disaster relief victims.

To donate to Iowa's Red Cross efforts, click here.

NEBRASKA

Omaha Salvation Army
The Omaha Salvation Army provides aid in response to flood relief and natural disasters across the midwest.

To donate to the Omaha Salvation Army, click here.

United Way of Western Nebraska
United Way trains volunteers before disasters so that immediate relief can be provided when storms strike. Volunteers can help with everything from administrative work and counseling to repair services and transportation.

To donate to United Way, click here. To learn more about volunteering, click here.

PHOTOS OF STORM DAMAGE BELOW:

Before You Go

Midwest Storms April 2012

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