MDS considers long-term response to spring tornadoes

After assessing needs in many communities in the wake of spring tornadoes, Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) will focus on long-term response in the midwest and south.

Though MDS is not deploying Early Response Teams to the tornado-damaged areas, people can still help by praying, donating, and checking the MDS website for further updates.

“As we continue to work with local partners in these storm-devastated communities, please pray for those who have lost loved ones, and for all those who remain stunned and traumatized,” said MDS Executive Director Kevin King.

On March 31 and April 1, severe tornadoes devastated communities across the south and midwest, killing at least 32 people. These tornadoes struck just one week after a twister in Mississippi decimated the towns of Rolling Fork and Silver City on March 24.

The latest storm outbreak spawned more than 50 tornado reports in at least seven states. As residents dig out from their crushed homes and businesses, MDS continues to work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, state emergency management officials, and state Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to formulate a response that helps those most in need.

Volunteers are asked not to self-deploy at this time to allow emergency response crews to clear safe entry into the disaster areas.

To donate, visit mds.org and click on the “Donate (USD)” or “Donate (CA)” link then follow the instructions on the web page. Please designate your gift to “2023 Spring Tornadoes.” Donations received for a specific disaster that exceed the amount needed will be applied to a similar underfunded response.

If donors would prefer to send a check, mail cash/checks, payable to “Mennonite Disaster Service” with “2023 Spring Tornadoes” on the memo line to: Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Rd, Lititz, PA 17543.