Latest estimates indicate that approximately 500 homes were damaged or destroyed as a result of the tornadoes that struck Dundee early Sunday morning, and the Southeastern Michigan Chapter will continue working with the Monroe County Chapter to assist those affected.

As the regional disaster response chapter, the Southeastern Michigan Chapter of the Red Cross will send several case workers to formally process disaster relief needs, helping the Monroe chapter provide emergency food, clothing, shelter and emotional support to the families affected by the weekend tornadoes.

Red Cross relief began early Sunday, as groups of volunteers and staff traversed Monroe County, going door to door doing initial assessments of the damages and injuries and providing emotional support. Volunteers also handed out water to families and those cutting down trees. “People were so appreciative of the water, and our asking if they were okay,” said Karen Hoth, a volunteer from the Southeastern Michigan Chapter.

On Monday, local volunteers and staff continued to assist with infrastructural damage assessment of homes and buildings, and they are back today meeting with the affected families and formally processing their emergency aid to help them recover from the devastating tornadoes over the weekend.

More accurate information about the damage to the affected areas in Monroe County will be available later today.

Disaster Relief Support for Monroe County Tornados and Other Disasters Like This:

• Call the Southeastern Michigan Chapter at 877.788.0014
• Visiting www.semredcross.org,
• Text the word “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Contact:  Andrea Tomaszewski 248-224-5606