Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response (LSSDR) is partnering with several other emergency assistance organizations to assist the families who have experienced damaged or destroyed homes and possessions due to the catastrophic tornadoes that swept through the Dallas area on Tuesday, April 3^rd.

Right now we are addressing the immediate, emergency needs for food, shelter, and clothing of affected individuals and families. “Our past experience with survivors of natural disasters has proven time and again that financial assistance to cover these immediate living expenses is the best way we can help,” said Mark Minick, LSS senior vice president for Disaster Response. “Additionally, we are asking for your prayers for the families whose lives have been devastated.”

LSSDR is grateful for any financial assistance to support these relief efforts at this time. The quickest and easiest avenue is to make on online donation to LSS Disaster Response.  Designate “Dallas Tornadoes 2012” in the drop-down menu.

In addition to working with LWR, Texas VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster), and other community groups, LSSDR will also be working with local congregations and the Synod and District to provide emergency grants to those who are in need.

Damage Assessment:

The Red Cross has assembled a preliminary damage assessment based on verbal conversations with field staff and emergency managers in the affected areas.  Throughout the Metroplex area the following information has been gathered: 

This will be verified with actual damage assessments, on the streets which will continue.  So far damages are in five primary locations, with Lancaster being the largest.

Additional damage assessment teams are arriving in the area to continue assessing damages and to be available if there are additional damages in other parts of the region. 

Resources: Shelter

Resources: Food

Southern Baptist Texas Convention Kitchen is set up in Lancaster to provide meals.  USDA and HEB are coordinating with SBTC for food delivery and local food banks and restaurants are supporting the initial breakfast meal.