By Dave Andrusko
In 2005 just after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, National Right to Life received a desperate call for help from a few CPCs that were still managing to operate. We placed a small box containing their information on our website and listed their addresses and contact information to send items to. In the box, we listed the items that were most in need. It was a huge success.
We are doing the same today, following the horrific tornado that ripped through Joplin, Missouri. At least 125 people have died, making it the deadliest single twister since the National Weather Service began keeping records in 1950.
Missouri Right to Life immediately sent out a notice, following Sunday’s devastation. Let me quote from their call for help:
This Sunday, the city of Joplin, Missouri was hit by one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy. As recovery efforts are underway, volunteers and organizations in the devastated area need some help reaching out to those in need, including the local pregnancy resource center.
LifeChoices Medical Clinic and Resource Center has been visiting mothers affected by the tornado in shelters and damaged homes and apartments throughout the town assessing their needs and offering assistance. Their office, located several blocks from the tornado damage, remains open, but supplies are going fast. Items needed include diapers, wipes, formula, clothing, bottles, sippy cups, blankets, baby wash, toys, etc.
On its own Facebook LifeChoices added this update:
We are working tirelessly to assess needs and disseminate materials to those in need. At this time, LifeChoices is continuing to collect baby items (diapers, formula, clothing, bottles, sippy cups, blankets, baby wash, toys, etc.) and gift cards (Wal-Mart, Target, local restaurants) that we will distribute to local families. We are sharing every resource we have (including our facilities) with affected clients, community members, and the medical community with whom we serve who have lost everything. If anyone has a need for baby care items, please send them to our office (531 E. 7th Street, Joplin) or they may call 417-623-0131.
As the recovery proceeds, LifeChoices will need the support of the nation to sustain our ministry in this community as many local funds will be redirected toward those in the direct path of the disaster – the economic impact of this loss is predicted to be astronomical. Any gifts that can be given will be used to continue the life-breathing ministry of LifeChoices in this hurting community. We are so grateful that we were spared, but humbled at the task that is before us to serve our brothers and sisters. We will need your prayers and support to be able to fulfill that call.
If you click here, you will be taken to a box on our main web page. There you will find information how to donate to the important work that is going on in Joplin, Missouri to help crisis pregnancy centers and others.
Thank you!