In wake of Saturday’s tornado, public officials have compiled lists of needed items with drop-off locations for those wishing to aid victims of the storm.
Columbus Municipal School District Superintendent Cherie Labat said at least 45 students have reported being displaced since Saturday, with some families losing their homes entirely. She added the number of displaced students has continued to rise throughout the week. After speaking with administrators, Labat gathered a list of necessary items for families and students that have been affected by the storm.
The Dispatch, 516 Main St., has a drop-off box in its front office for volunteers and citizens to help support the Falcon Family.
Labat asks for those willing to donate, please only give the listed items. Those interested can drop off toiletries and non-perishable items such as toothbrushes, pillows, towels, blow dryers, crackers, tuna and gift cards.
“The Columbus Municipal School District is humbled by the efforts of volunteers, local businesses and churches for the supplies given to families that have been displaced,” Labat said. “The Friendly City once again has showed integrity and compassion for others as we recover as a community.”
The city of Columbus has also set up a website for those wishing to make monetary donations at helpcolumbusms.org.
The link will also be regularly updated with the supplies most needed in the community, City Public Information Officer Joe Dillon said — a list which right now includes nonperishable food items and cleaning supplies including laundry detergent and personal hygiene products.
Those items can be dropped off at 1605 Main St., Dillon said.
Disaster relief supplies needed
■ Toiletries: comb, brush, hair grease, shaver, razor, shaving cream, aftershave, perfume, cologne, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, lip balm, deodorant, soap, shampoo, lotion, towels, blow dryers, shower caps, sanitary napkins and tampons.
■ Paper products: paper plates, bowls, cups, plastic spoons, forks, knives, paper towels, napkins, toilet tissue, bath towels, sheets, pillows, pillow cases, comforters, blankets, Pampers diapers, wet wipes, baby lotion, baby oil, shampoo and baby wash.
■ Gift cards: clothes, gas and food.
■ Non-perishable food items: Cheese/peanut butter crackers, beef jerky, applesauce, pudding, fruit cups, granola bars, cereal bars, noodles, tuna, nuts, seeds, popcorn, can goods, dried fruits, bottled water and almond milk
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