Locals can help with storm relief efforts through sheriff's department

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department is coordinating a local, grassroots effort — in conjunction with first responders from across Mississippi — to collect various relief supplies to help those impacted by a tornado outbreak on Friday, March 24.

Residents of Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe and Sharkey counties are picking up the pieces after severe weather blasted the area — killing at least 23 people and injuring dozens more.

Franklin County Sheriff Tom Tindle said his office — located inside the courthouse in Meadville — is currently accepting donations from residents looking to help their fellow Mississippians.

“We know there are a lot of people in our county looking for a way to help, and the sheriff’s office will serve as a central collection point for donations of anything that can assist our neighbors in those four counties,” Tindle noted.

“Any help would be appreciated and there are certain items that are needed more than anything else right now including clean-up supplies like chainsaws, shovels, tarps along with cleaning supplies and paper products like toilet paper and paper towels.”

Tindle said other recommended relief donations can include: Antibacterial wipes, drinking water (single-serving bottles and gallon size jugs), nonperishable food items and manual can openers, baby food, diapers, baby wipes, formula, plastic bottles, pet food, buckets and all sizes of garbage bags.

“Right now, clothing and personal item donations will not be taken as the immediate need is for the things that can help these people begin the recovery process and to meet their basic human needs,” Tindle went on to say.

“The items taken in locally will be forwarded to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency as it works to collect and provide resources in the hardest hit areas.”