SEVERE WEATHER

How You Can Help Victims of the Tornadoes in Kentucky

A list of on-the-ground relief efforts for those affected by tornadoes in Western Kentucky and beyond

Photo: Mark Humphrey / Associated Press

People survey damage from a tornado in Mayfield, Kentucky, on Saturday.

Powerful tornadoes ripped across the South and Midwest overnight on December 11, with western Kentucky bearing the brunt of the damage. Nearly ninety are dead across five states, over a hundred people remain missing, and thousands more have lost their homes or are without power. Here is a list of relief efforts, resources, and ways to help from near and far. We will continue to update the list in the coming days.


Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund

Governor Andy Beshear established the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund to help those affected by the tornadoes. Donate here.


Freight House

This Paducah, Kentucky, restaurant is preparing meals for those in need under chef Sara Bradley’s leadership. You can drop off donations (including disposable plates and cutlery, new clothing and toiletries, and trash bags at the restaurant, or make a financial contribution through the LEE Initiative here.


Mercy Chefs

Based in Virginia, this nonprofit organization is deploying to Mayfield, to provide meals to victims. You can donate to disaster relief here


Draw Buckets

DRAW (Disaster Relief At Work, Inc.) aims to help communities across the United States during natural disasters. DRAW is providing needed supplies to the affected communities from Kentucky to Arkansas. You can donate here


Samaritan’s Purse

North Carolina–based Samaritan’s Purse mobilizes volunteers to help those affected by natural disasters. The organization is sending supplies and equipment to the severely-hit areas of Kentucky and Arkansas. You can donate here and sign up to volunteer here.  


The Johnson Bar

The local business in Paducah, Kentucky, is collecting item donations for first responders (flashlights, gloves, water, etc.) and clothing, blankets, and toiletries for victims. You can learn more about donating here


KEDC (Kentucky Educational Development Corporation)

KEDC is accepting donations for toys, water, and other necessities to Western Kentucky tornado victims at their Ashland (904 Rose Road, Ashland) and Lexington (118 James Court Ste 60) locations. 


Kentucky Baptist Convention & Disaster Relief

KBDR has 2,500 volunteers trained as disaster relief aids who can help feed those in need, remove tornado debris, and help clean homes affected by the storm. You can donate here


Paducah Community Kitchen

Located in a hard-hit community, this kitchen provides food to those in need. You can donate here.


His House Ministries

The nondenominational church in Mayfield is organizing volunteers to clear debris, and they’re serving hot meals for victims. Members are posting daily updates on their Facebook page.


Southern Smoke

Anyone in the food and beverage industry—from farmer to distiller to restaurant or bar worker—is eligible for Southern Smoke Emergency Relief funds if they were affected by the tornados through lost wages, destroyed homes or transportation, or injuries. Apply here.


Also see: Epic Bourbon Auction Supports Tornado Relief


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