5 ways you can support Fultondale tornado disaster relief

Local groups like the United Way of Central Alabama, the American Red Cross of Alabama and community groups throughout the region are stepping up to assist people impacted by the tornado that struck Fultondale and Center Point on the morning of January 26.

From a preliminary survey, the Birmingham office of the National Weather Service found High-end EF-2 Damage (135mph winds) from a tornado that struck Fultondale primarily north of Walker Chapel Road NE to US Highway 31 and to New Castle Road.

At a 10:00AM news conference, Fultondale Fire Chief Justin McKenzie says there are 30 injuries and one confirmed fatality from the tornado. Six people were recovered safely at 7AM this morning.

“We’ve been here before, it is never easy…. People need help out here.”

Joe Knight, Jefferson County Commissioner

Following Commissioner Knight’s lead Bham Now has compiled a list of groups assisting our Jefferson County neighbors.

American Red Cross of Alabama 

The Red Cross was on the scene early this morning and afternoon handing out food, snacks, water and tarps.. According to Annette Rowland, a spokesperson for the organization, the best way people can help right now are financial donations at Redcross.org and checking on their neighbors.

United Way of Central Alabama

If you are interested in volunteering, United Way has set up a link that will connect you to disaster relief agencies. They are coordinating with local and state Emergency Management Agencies. Visit the disaster relief  webpage – HERE.

In a statement from United Way:

“Our role in disaster response has always been to focus on the long-term needs of those impacted. The victims will need our help in the weeks and months ahead in the important recovery phase. This is a good time to donate to the long term recovery needs at www.uwca.org/tornado”

On the United Way site are links to the Salvation Army, Red Cross and their new volunteer page. For long term assistance, donate to United Way at: http://www.eunited.org/tornado

Donations can also be made by text by texting TORNADO to 62644

Fultondale, Center Point City Halls and Hoover Fire Stations

Officials from both Fultondale and Center Point are encouraging people to donate items.

From the City of Fultondale Facebook page:  the city is requesting:

• Gift cards
• Cleaning items
• Trash bags
• Water
• Tarps
• Gloves
• Paper towels
• Non perishable food items
• Bedding
• Blankets
• Wash cloths
• Towels
• Diapers
• Formulas
• Fashlights, batteries, 
• Dog and cat food. 

Donate these items at the Fultondale City Hall.

The city of Center Point has designated their city hall as a drop off location too. Just drop the same items listed above at 2209 Center Point Parkway.

The city of Hoover also opened up their fire station as a drop-off site till January 31st, 5:00PM.

Time to Come Together Birmingham

Along with these places, and organizations,  people have been stepping forward all over Birmingham to help our neighbors in Fultondale and Center Point. A drop-off station popped up at the Gardendale Walmart this afternoon and even a Full Moon BBQ and Waffle House. 

Stay Tuned

Bham Now will keep you up to date on the Fultondale/Center Point disaster relief and recovery efforts. Check our social media and website for updates.