Save the South!

Officials are saying the recent tornadoes that swept through Alabama and seven other Southern states this week have left damage at least as bad as the aftermath of Katrina. We can only hope that the disaster relief efforts will be better managed this time. I almost cried this morning after seeing pictures of the wreckage on the New York Times website.

This guy is standing on his front porch.

If like me, you're wondering how to help, here is a short list of organizations to consider donating to. Notice that the United Way is taking clothes and food, in addition to money. I am planning to send them a package of clothes next week. Let me know if you'd like to contribute.

United Way of West Alabama: 2720 Sixth St. No. 100, between Lurleen Wallace Boulevard and Capitol Park, 205-345-6640. The United Way could use donations of nonperishable food items, clothes, tarps, and feminine hygiene products. You can also make cash donations, all of which will stay local, by credit card at www.uwwa.org.

Feeding America: Feeding America distributes food to local food banks providing meals to states hit by the tornadoes. Donate to them here.

St. Mark United Methodist Church: 1421 McFarland Blvd., Northport, Alabama, 205-339-5990. The church is currently serving as a shelter for the displaced, and you can send it nonperishable food and clothes. If you're in the area, they could also use volunteers with medical training.

Red Cross: The Red Cross has already set up temporary shelters across the damaged states and is providing meals and medical assistance to families. As usual, you can donate $10 to their relief effort by texting "REDCROSS" to 90999. You can also donate online or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

The Salvation Army: The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services is also providing food to the displaced. You can donate $10 to them by texting "GIVE" to 80888. To donate online, go to salvationarmyusa.org, and to give via phone, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY and say you'd like to designate your funds for the "April 2011 Tornado Outbreak."

This list came from GOOD magazine. More here.