Volunteers are helping families affected by the storm, providing resources as residents work through the early stages of recovery. The American Red Cross has established several shelters and food centers where families can receive meals and a safe place to stay.
Mitch Chatman, a senior disaster program manager with the Red Cross, said the organization is prepared to assist families with a range of needs.
Tiara Jackson
Lincoln County Residents Begin Long Road to Tornado Recovery
“Whether that's resources and referrals, helping them connect to someone that may be able to help them get over whatever obstacle they may have,” said Chatman. “But also from a standpoint of if they qualify for certain aspects such as financial assistance, we'll provide that to them as well.”
Jalen Walker was injured at Wash Trailer Park while protecting his family. He was inside his home when the roof was ripped away, and first responders later found him outside. Doctors treated him with several stitches to his head. Walker said his family is staying with relatives for now as they determine their next steps.
“If I find stuff I'm bringing it as I go to trying to help out a little bit but trying to see what all I can fine and salvage from my stuff,” said Walker.
Tiara Jackson, MPB News
Tiara Jackson, MPB News
Tiara Jackson, MPB News
Tiara Jackson, MPB News
Tiara Jackson, MPB News
The American Red Cross has mobile units traveling through impacted areas with food, water and other needed supplies.
Michael Pyeatt, who lives on Stoneybrook Trail in Bogue Chitto near Wash Trailer Park, said his family has been in the community for more than 50 years. His relatives’ homes were destroyed in the storm, and they returned this week to gather what remained. Pyeatt said he and his wife are staying in a hotel at night and returning home during the day to clean up while they wait for insurance assessments.
“I plan on building right back,” said Pyeatt. “I can say that you can't beat the neighborhood and the community. Bogue Chitto as a whole.”
Chatman said anyone still displaced or in need of assistance should call 1-800-REDCROSS.
Crews with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency are assessing damage in several areas, including Lincoln County.