Help Storm Victims and Guidance for Families
OETA joins Oklahomans across the state in sending our thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by the May tornados.
In the coming days and months, OETA will continue to work with community partners and state agencies in providing our services and resources to help those most in need.
To learn how you can help the recovery effort and victims of this tragedy, see the list of resources and contact information below.
As Oklahomans, we know that our spirit is strong and our communities are resilient.
Together, we will persevere. God bless Oklahoma.
Resources & Ways to Help
Red Cross for Central/Western Oklahoma: Please call 1-800-RedCross, go to www.redcross.org/okc or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation from your mobile device. If you want to volunteer please call our chapter at 405-228-9500.
The Salvation Army: On the ground providing food, water and shelter for victims and relief workers. Click here to donate. Or text message STORM to 80888 to give $10. Follow Salvation Army on Facebook or Twitter for more information about mobile donation sites.
Volunteer Opportunities: The City of Moore Recovers is a site for Moore's community recovery. If you are a local organizer helping with relief, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to get admin access.
Goodwill: All donations intended for relief efforts can be made to any Goodwill location in Central Oklahoma for immediate distribution to victims of the tornadoes. Goodwill asks that people wanting to volunteer with the distribution efforts contact Sarah Steffes at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or complete the volunteer form at okgoodwill.org. PENN SQUARE MALL will serve as one dedicated collection site. Neighbors are encouraged to drop-off Gatorade, bottled water, baby formula, diapers, baby wipes, individually wrapped snacks, sunscreen, hand sanitizer and personal hygiene products during select hours. Representatives from Goodwill will be on site to load a truck and deliver the donated items directly to the community of Moore. WHEN: TODAY through Fri., May 24, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sat., May 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Feed the Children: We are preparing emergency supplies to respond to families affected by the tornadoes in Oklahoma. If you would like to help, please visit: www.FeedTheChildren.org/disaster
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma: To make a tax deductible donation to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, go to www.regionalfoodbank.org or call 604-7111 or text FOOD to 32333 to give $10 to relief efforts.
United Way: The United Way of Central Oklahoma's Disaster Relief Fund is open. Donations may be made online at www.unitedwayokc.org, by phone through (405) 236-8441or by mail to United Way of Central Oklahoma, P.O. Box 837, Oklahoma City, OK 73101 with notation for May Tornado Relief. Funds will be distributed without administrative fees to United Way Partner Agencies working on the tornado relief efforts.
FEMA: To apply for disaster assistance individuals and business owners may call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go online at www.disasterassistance.gov. The designation ensures federal assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, disaster unemployment assistance, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.
COX Telecom Centers: For those affected by the storm or relief workers, these centers have free open WiFi, local and long distance calling, HD video service and Cox TV Connect access for those impacted so they can have video viewing capabilities outside of the home. LOCATIONS: St. Andrew, 800 NW 5th St, Moore, OK 73160 & Moore Community Center 301 N. Broadway, Moore, OK 73160
Pet Owners: OKC Lost Pets exists to help pet owners who lost their pets as a result of the May 20 tornadoes in Moore, Shawnee, Carney and Bethel Acres, Oklahoma. This is your virtual “bulletin board.” Instead of dozens of Facebook pages, this is the OFFICIAL SITE for the City of Oklahoma City and the City of Moore.
Lost and Found: If anyone finds photographs lost from homes in the tornado, save them and spread the word. For information about preserving photos, go online to Operation Photo Rescue at http://www.operationphotorescue.org. If you have a found item that you'd like to share, try posting it here: https://www.facebook.com/MooreTornadoLostAndFound.
Talking to Kids
PBS Parents: Whether it's a major traumatic event or chronic daily hassles, kids can have a hard time coping with some of the challenges they face. When children feel overwhelmed and unable to manage situations, it can have serious negative consequences. Read more...
PBS Parents YouTube: A playlist with videos containing tips for talking to kids about scary news. Watch...
How to Handle Children's Questions About Scary News: Tornadoes. Tsunamis. Terrorists. There’s certainly no shortage of scary stories in the news. What do you do if your child starts asking questions that you’re not prepared to answer? Have no fear! Dr. Rosemarie Truglio, VP of Research and Education at Sesame Workshop, has some simple strategies to help you respond. Watch...
Mister Rogers: In times of crisis, children want to know, "Who will take care of me?" They're dependent on adults for their survival and security. They're naturally self-centered. Watch his commentary and read more...
Sesame Street: Children might still be confused about what exactly a tornado is. Explain that it is a big storm with a lot of wind and heavy rain. It can be scary, but adults will do their best to keep children safe. Sesame Street prepared a tool kit for talking about natural disasters with kids. Learn more...
Helping Our Children in Difficult Times: What can we say to children when public tragedies and upsetting events occur? Should we shield them from the news? How can we reassure them and help them feel safe? Here is some advice from early childhood experts that may be helpful. Read more...