If you read Friday’s post, you know that I am trying to do what I can to help my neighbors in Alabama that were affected by the tornado outbreak. So many are donating their time, money, and resources to help those in need. Many people have asked me how can they help, what can they do?

If you don’t live in one of the states that was hit, the best thing to do is donate money to a relief fund. If you know someone in one of those states who is helping, you could also use PayPal to send them a donation which can in turn be used to buy much needed supplies. Area across the country are sending trucks with supplies, check online for places in your area. Check with the United Way, Salvation Army, etc. You can also follow the #alwx and #WeareAlabama hash tags on Twitter, and the best sources I have found on Facebook are the Toomer’s for Tuscaloosa page and of course, the page of our very own weather hero and my friend James Spann, whose dedication saved countless lives this week.

What to send or how will your money be spent? Many people have lost EVERYTHING. The list at the bottom of this post just touches the tip of the needs of these victims. Water, food and ice are being distributed by many agencies and individuals in state, and I think that need will be met on the local level of each community.

It’s a lot of everyday items that are needed. Things we take for granted, that are basic staples of our everyday life. Please do what you can, because you never know when that person in need might be you. Grab the button and code below for your blog if you’d like, and please share it with your readers. The link goes to the Alabama chapter of the Red Cross.

<a href=”http://www.causes.com/campaigns/115399?cause_id=608753“><img src=”http://aiminglow.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/disaster.png“></a>

Additional information can be found online, but here are a few of the more helpful links I have found …….

http://alabamapossible.org/2011/04/tornado-relief-how-you-can-help/

http://www.servealabama.gov

http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2011/04/alabama_tornadoes_how_you_can.html

http://www.gbhs.org

As I stated, basic items are needed, here is just a partial list ……

• toothbrushes/toothpaste
• deodorant
• dry shampoo
• aspirin/OTC medications
• contact lens cases/saline
• ponytail holders / brushes
• adult diapers
• bathroom wet wipes
• reading glasses in all strengths
• inflatable mattresses / yoga mats
• linens and pillows
• dry food
• paper plate/cups
• canned goods and can openers
• baby items- diapers,wipes,pacifiers,blankets,etc
• granola/energy bars
• disposable grills / charcoal / lighter fluid / matches
• flashlights and batteries
• first-aid supplies
• sanitary wipes
• work gloves
• garbage bags
• ziploc bags to store found items
• plastic bins/laundry baskets
• packaged socks and underwear
• dog and cat food / leashes / bowls
• tarps

I know I’m forgetting lots of things, but ANYTHING helps. I have found that the best thing I’ve done so far is buy several plastic totes and filled them with items listed above, then take them to those who need them. They appreciate it more than you know.

And so do I. Thanks y’all.