Volunteers are still pouring in to the western Iowa town of Mapleton to help with clean-up and humanitarian efforts after the community was heavily damaged by a weekend tornado. Susan Eustice, spokeswoman for the Salvation Army in Omaha, says offering aid is their top priority.
eustice says, “We’re all working together to make sure these people get the help they need immediately.” Captain Von Vandiver, with the Siouxland chapter of the Salvation Army, says volunteers from a number of agencies are helping clear debris, assisting homeowners and bringing in supplies. He says one beverage supply company sent in a truckload of items and promised to deliver whatever is needed.
Vandiver says the best thing the public can do is donate funds to the cause. “Money allows us to buy the food and the water, the clothes,” he says. “Early on, it’s hard to assess what exactly people are going to need. Vandiver says his agency can purchase many items below cost and stretch the donated dollar. The Salvation Army served more than 1,000 noon meals on Monday alone.
By Karla James