How to help with the tornado relief effort

Pradyot Sharma The city of Troy and the University Athletics department are partnering with Troy alumnus Demarcus Ware, a former NFL defensive end, to help with tornado relief efforts. The group will be collecting toiletries, clothes, shoes, cleaning supplies and any other helpful items that members of the community can bring according to Jamaal Smith, the director of player development for Troy football and point person for the event. The group will be organizing the relief effort at St. Peter Baptist Church at 12:45 p.m. on Friday, April 19. Meanwhile, the Red Cross is working with those displaced by the storm by helping them find a place to stay and providing funds for food and emergency items like clothes and hygiene products. The Red Cross can also help provide prescriptions, medical equipment and counseling for those affected by natural disasters. “Financial assistance and donations are always needed,” Henderson said. “We use the donations to helps clients personally.” The Red Cross is asking for donations and volunteers. Henderson explained that funds stay within the area they are given. If a sponsor wants their funds to go specifically to the Pike County tornado relief, they can say so on a check or online donation at RedCross.org. Those wanting to volunteer can apply online under the volunteer tab. “There’s always something to do with the Red Cross,” Henderson said.