Aid groups mobilize to help victims of tornadoes in Kentucky, nearby states

Disaster-aid and humanitarian groups are mobilizing to help tornado victims in Kentucky and nearby states. Here's a look at some of the relief being provided:

The American Red Cross is making it easy to send a quick $10 donation simply by texting “REDCROSS" addressed to the number, 90999. Other donations can be made by calling 800-733-2767 or visiting redcross.org. Other information, including suggestions on how to find someone affected by the storm, can be found here.

World Vision, a Christian humanitarian group, said it plans to begin shipping relief supplies to churches in Kentucky beginning Sunday. Besides food and emergency kits, the supplies will include heaters, blankets, solar lights and mini-refrigerators.

Samaritan’s Purse, another humanitarian group, said it sent disaster response teams on Saturday to Mayfield, Kentucky, and Monette, Arkansas, while other teams started to head to the devastation in Tennessee and Illinois. A tractor-trailer stocked with tools and equipment departed from Texas, according to the group, with more help on the way from North Carolina when weather allows.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced the creation of a tornado relief fund for the western part of the state and also called on people to donate blood, which has been running in short supply during the pandemic.

“There are going to be a lot of deaths," Beshear said. “There are also going to be a lot of injuries."

The governor also said people in the affected areas can help by staying off the roads, whenever possible.