(ANGOLA) - Volunteers are being asked to help load tornado relief supplies today from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Heritage Club in Angola as donations are prepared for delivery to storm-damaged communities.
The effort is being organized by Indiana Storm Chasers, a regional storm response group coordinating aid for families affected by recent tornadoes.
Organizers say the group is collecting a wide range of supplies, including bottled water, shelf-stable food, first aid kits, toiletries, diapers, pet food, batteries, flashlights, weather radios, tarps, tools, contractor bags, blankets, and cold-weather clothing. Donations for children -- such as toys, games, and clothing -- are also being requested.
Supply drop-offs are currently being accepted at Heritage Club of Angola / Steuben County Council on Aging and Gauntlet Hobbies and Gauntlet Design Studio, both located in Angola.
Indiana Storm Chasers is also asking for drivers willing to transport supplies to communities in need and businesses across Indiana willing to serve as additional collection points. Organizers say they are also looking for a donated storage unit in the Angola area to help manage the growing number of supplies.
For people who want to help but cannot drop off items, the group has created an Amazon wishlist where supplies can be purchased and shipped directly to organizers. Financial donations to help cover fuel and transportation costs are also being accepted through the group's Ko-Fi donation page.
Organizers are asking the public not to travel to storm-damaged communities unless they are delivering supplies or helping with cleanup, saying unnecessary visits can slow recovery efforts.
They also urge donors to verify relief organizations before giving, warning that some individuals have attempted to exploit disaster relief efforts for personal gain.
Indiana Storm Chasers says continued community support will help ensure supplies reach families still recovering from the storms.