It has been a sad week for Tennessee in the wake of the storms that ripped through middle Tennessee early Tuesday morning, leaving many homes, businesses and even historical buildings destroyed.
There have been over 20 deaths accounted for so far, 18 of which are from Putnam County, 2 in East Nashville, 1 in Benton County, and 3 in Wilson County. Among the victims were 5 young children, with at least 21 people still missing and the death toll continuing to rise. Rescue teams are working hard to locate the individuals as many families are grieving the loss of loved ones.
At this time, there are still thousands of people without power, and it could be a few days before power is able to be restored.
Although the storms hailed no damage in Coffee County, many of our community members are reaching out a lending hand, in efforts to aid the grieving or injured families. The Coffee County Rescue Squad has sent members of their team to the Cookeville/Putnam County area to help search damaged homes and neighborhoods for missing individuals Tuesday evening, and will continue to send members to help with relief efforts throughout the week. The Coffee County Sheriff’s Department has also sent officers to the area to assist survivors of deadly tornado by securing damaged areas. The Sheriff’s Department also delivered blankets donated by North Coffee Elementary.
How You Can Help.
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has opened the Middle Tennessee Emergency Response Fund “to support the affected communities and nonprofits helping victims address their ongoing needs.” You can donate to this fund by clicking here. The Community Resource center is also accepting supply donations of personal hygiene items, bleach, trash bags, gloves and box cutters.
Hands On Nashville is accepting volunteers for clean up efforts, you can express interest in becoming a volunteer by signing up here.
Tullahoma Mayor Lane Curlee stated in a facebook post that the City of Tullahoma is organizing a blood drive in partnership with the Red Cross of Putnam County. A list of needed supplies posted in the photo below can be donated and dropped off at Fire Hall #1 on South Jackson St. in Tullahoma before March 10th.
The Red Cross blood drive will be Thursday, March 5th from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the gymnasium at Tullahoma High School. A total of three lives can be saved per donation made.
Addtional Resources can be found by contacting:
- The American Red Cross ( 615-250-4300)
- Salvation Army ( 615-242-0411)
Second Harvest Food Bank is also working to assist residents and other relief operations by providing meals and support to those in need. You can learn more about how to volunteer or donate to Second Harvest here. Every dollar donated will provide four meals.