Over 1K Tornado Victims Get Help At Resource Center In Woodridge

WOODRIDGE, IL — More 1,000 tornado victims got access to free meals, relief resources and disaster cleanup supplies at a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School Saturday and Sunday. The resource center was organized by the Red Cross, Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) of Northeast Illinois and the State of Illinois the wake of the tornado that devastated Woodridge, Naperville, Darien and surrounding areas on Father's Day.

Hundreds of meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner were served to residents who visited the resource center. Snacks and water were also available onsite.

Nearly 40 community organizations gathered at the event to offer resources and information. In total, 350 families received aid, according to Joy Squier, spokesperson for the Red Cross in Illinois.

"At the Red Cross, our hearts go out to the affected residents who experienced the devastating tornado," Squier told Patch.

Here's a look at how the Red Cross's more than 80 local volunteers have helped victims since the June 20 tornado, via reception centers and emergency response vehicles in affected areas:

• Over 4,400 meals served
• More than 2,500 snacks and cases of water handed out
• Over 3,000 emergency supplies distributed, including trash bags, gloves, shovels and tarps

Squier told Path the Red Cross is continuing to help local tornado victims with meals, water, health services and mental health services. Those who need aid are encouraged to call the Red Cross at 1-877-597-0747 to speak with a caseworker.

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