Local trio help storm victims

John and Marjorie Donoghue and Lew Savik of Kalispell have deployed with the Montana Red Cross to help victims from last week’s savage storms in the South.

The Donoghues left Sunday for Jackson, Miss., to work for 14 to 21 days to assess needs and help develop long-term recovery plans. Savik left Monday for Alabama to help hand out cleanup kits, shovels, gloves, boots and trash bags to residents as they return home.

Southern states were hammered by a series of severe storms last week. At least 342 people were killed and thousands more hurt.

Local volunteers are among seven people from Montana now working in areas of need. According to Colleen Tone, statewide disaster director, physical needs of victims — food and shelter — are straightforward, but helping a community regain a sense of security and stability is a greater battle.

“Until something like this happens to you, it’s really not even something anyone can fathom,” Tone said.

The Donoghue, both in their late 70s, are seasoned volunteers who have deployed to other disasters scenes such as those created by hurricanes Katrina and Gustav. The two have performed many different duties ranging from staffing portable showers to food distribution.

Those who wish to help people affected by disasters such as wildfires, floods and tornadoes nationwide, may go to www.redcross.org or text the word “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation to help with tornado and storm relief.   

Those who want to help with the crises that occur every 53 hours in Montana — including wildfires, flooding and home fires — may call 1-800-ARC-MONT or go to www.montanaredcross.org.