As Disaster Cleanup Begins, Joplin Tornado Relief Continues

Tetanus Vaccine, Insulin, Coolers, and Water Arrive in Disaster Zone

As the massive cleanup effort in Joplin begins, AmeriCares continues to send help to the survivors of the deadly May 22 tornado.Within hours of our emergency response expert’s arrival on the scene, we began a series of targeted shipments of chronic care cardiovascular and asthma medications, antibiotics and supplies to address the shattered city’s most urgent needs.  

More critical help arrived over the Memorial Day holiday, and new shipments are underway:

• 1,300 Units of Tetanus Vaccine:  Cleanup efforts led by the National Guard are rapidly exhausting tetanus vaccine supplies as first responders and survivors wade through twisted metal and debris. A rush shipment of vaccine sent directly from the manufacturers arrived in Joplin on May 28 for use at mobile triage centers serving firefighters and affected families.
  
• Over 1,000 Igloo Coolers: Partner clinics received a share of coolers to store tetanus vaccines, while a Springfield food bank got the majority  to distribute to families along with food and water.
  
• 30,000 Units of Insulin: to replenish supplies for the many diabetics who lost everything when the tornado struck. Deliveries of both long and short-acting insulin, syringes and sharps containers are underway.
  
• 94,000 Bottles of Water:  delivered to the disaster zone as of May 31, with additional deliveries scheduled.
  
• Blankets and Hygiene Items: to help 600 displaced survivors.

Photo courtesy of Debbi Morello.Tetanus vaccine distribution at mobile triage unit in Joplin.On her second trip to Joplin, response expert, Jessica Ginger also met with department of health officials to discuss longer-term health care needs as the city recovers and rebuilds its heavily damaged hospital.$1.2 Million to Help Survivors in a Deadly Tornado YearThe devastating EF-5 tornado that claimed more than 130 lives in Joplin injured more than 750 people, and left thousands displaced is the latest in a series of U.S. tornado disasters. AmeriCares has sent more than $1.2 million in medical and humanitarian aid to six states, with efforts concentrated in the hardest-hit areas of Joplin, Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, AL, Smithville, MS, and Sanford, NC.Read MoreDonate Now