Neighbors unite as the 13th Ward organizes relief and recovery for tornado-hit St. Louis families.
The devastating tornado that recently tore through St. Louis left destruction in its wake, but it also revealed the strength, resilience, and compassion of the local community. Despite the challenges, the people and organizations within the 13th Ward have banded together alongside other city resources to bring hope, aid, and recovery to those affected by this tragic event.
A Unified Command Center for Relief Efforts
The 13th Ward, under the leadership of Alderwoman Pam Boyd, has acted quickly to establish a coordinated response. Partnering with Alderwoman Sharon Tyus, North Star Development, and key organizations including St. Louis Family Church Disaster Team, Cote Brilliant Housing, and St. James Riverview Development Corporation, a command center has been set up at Cote Brilliant Church. Starting Wednesday, this center will act as a hub for relief efforts, offering support and resources to those impacted by the storm.
This rapid response brings essential personnel and services together in one location, ensuring that affected residents can access the help they need as efficiently as possible.
FEMA Assessment and Disaster Assistance
Missouri’s Governor has requested FEMA to conduct a damage assessment for the affected areas. Scheduled for tomorrow, this evaluation will determine whether the state qualifies for disaster assistance, which will provide aid to individuals and public entities hard hit by the tornado. Residents are encouraged to remain informed as these updates unfold, as they’ll play a key role in shaping the recovery process.
Gratitude for First Responders and Volunteers
Alderwoman Boyd expressed immense gratitude to the first responders, volunteers, and organizations whose courageous efforts have been pivotal in addressing this crisis. “I feel tremendous gratitude for all our first responders, our police, EMTs, firefighters, street crews, forestry, Ameren, CEMA, SEMA, and thousands of volunteers,” she shared. She also acknowledged churches, nonprofits, unions, and donors who have stepped forward to support recovery efforts.
These individual acts of kindness, courage, and resilience come together to restore hope and confidence that St. Louis can and will rebuild stronger than before.
Resources Available for Storm Victims
The 13th Ward and broader St. Louis community are offering vital resources to support tornado victims, including:
Emergency Shelters
Managed by the Greater St. Louis chapter of the American Red Cross:
– Grace United Methodist Church (6199 Waterman)
– Friendly Temple Outreach Center (6356 Dr. Martin Luther King)
– The Recreational Center (1410 S. Tucker)
Shelters offer basic necessities, including food, water, and medical care, without requiring ID or proof of residency.
Temporary Housing Assistance
Viciniti Corporate Housing is providing temporary, fully furnished apartments, including utilities and Wi-Fi. Use reference code STL51625 for assistance.
Neighborhood Resource Center
The Urban League’s St. Louis Neighborhood Resource Center (1408 N. Kingshighway) is a hub for storm-response information and resources.
Utility Emergencies and Cleanup
Downed Power Lines or Outages: Call Ameren at 800-552-7583 or report online.
Natural Gas Issues: Contact Spire at 800-887-4173.
Tree and Debris Cleanup: Contact the Citizens’ Service Bureau.
(Source St. Louis Post-Dispatch)
Additional Support
Annie Malone Crisis Center (5355 Page) offers free food, supplies, and on-site case management.
The United Way 211 Service connects residents to health and human services. Visit 211helps or dial 211.
Organizations like U-Haul are also stepping up by offering 30 days of free storage for storm victims.
Rebuilding Together
While the path to recovery will take time, the collective determination and generosity of the St. Louis community remain steadfast. Alderwoman Boyd shared her heartfelt words, “We will rebuild our city. We will rise!” With ongoing support from local and federal organizations, along with the resilience of its people, St. Louis is positioned to emerge stronger from this challenging chapter.
Keep an eye on updates from @stlcitygov and local resources for the latest information on recovery efforts. Together, the community is proving that hope and unity can outshine the storm.
Pam Boyd
Alderwoman 13th Ward
#StLouisStrong #TornadoRelief #CommunitySupport
