GRIFFIN, Ga. — Residents in Griffin and LaGrange are still recovering after a bought with tornadoes and severe weather, which caused extensive damage to businesses and homes. Here are some ways you can help those affected by last week’s severe weather:
Volunteers needed
The City of Griffin is asking for volunteers to help out at the Spalding County Senior Center and prepare hot meals for the community’s first responders. Those who would like to volunteer are asked to arrive at the location:
- Monday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The center is at 885 Memorial Drive. Residents can also call 678-453-4508 for volunteer opportunities
To help serve meals, call or text 770-597-7916. The volunteer event will be hosted by the Griffin-Spalding Chamber, according to a Facebook post from the City of Griffin.
Volunteers are also needed in LaGrange, according to a Facebook post from the Troup County Georgia Government.
Where to donate
Residents can donate items at the Donation Center at 220 East Solomon St. The City of Griffin is asking for these types of donations:
- Non-perishable food items
- Gift cards
- Toiletries
- Other personal items
Residents can also call 678-453-4508 to see what kind of items are needed.
Donated items can be dropped off at Confidence Missionary Baptist Church at 705 Colquitt St. in LaGrange. Drop-off will be in the back of the church, according to the post.
Items needed are:
- Bottled Water
- Cleaning Supplies
- Toiletry items, Gift cards
- Trash bags
- Bedding (new or very clean)
- Snacks
- Totes/storage containers
In addition, the City of LaGrange created the Community Outreach Tornado Fund to help residents affected by the storms. Money raised will go toward housing and food costs.
Those in need of assistance will need to fill out a verification form and provide documentation. These forms will be available at the LaGrange Police Department on 100 West Haralson Street.
To receive a form via email send a request to Katie Mercer Van Schoor at kvanschoor@lagrangega.org.
Completed forms can be dropped off at the LaGrange Police Department or emailed to nbelcher@lagrangega.org or jbutler@lagrangega.org.
Shelters for Griffin and LaGrange residents
A Shelter is now open for Griffin residents at First Methodist Church. The church is at 1401 Maple St., according to the post.
The American Red Cross opened a shelter for residents in Troup County. The shelter is at Faith Baptist Church. The church is at 552 Hammett Road in LaGrange.
Housing for lost pets or pets with owners in temporary shelters
The Animal Control FEMA trailer in Griffin is holding pets lost in the storm. If you've lost a pet, you may want to check the trailer. Housing is also provided for owned pets who can't return home, according to the post. For more information, call 770-229-9911 or 678-588-2983.
Mental Health
If you are suffering from mental health issues, you can call 988.