A list of distribution points for food and other items, as well as other resources for victims of last week's tornado.
Below is a list of announcements regarding resources and tornado relief efforts we've received in the newsroom this morning. We'll be updating the list as information comes in.
If you know of a resource that should be added to this list -- or to the map below -- please post a comment or email online@repub.com.
Food distribution in Springfield
The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and Springfield Partners for Community Action will hold an emergency food distribution today at 2:30 p.m. The distribution will take place at Springfield Partners for Community Action, 721 State Street (distribution will take place in lot behind the building, which is on Monroe Street). According to a press release from the Food Bank, the distribution will include "a few thousand ready-to-eat meals, fruit, bread, peanut butter, snacks, nuts, and other nutritious foods."
Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society offers temporary pet care
Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society, located at 171 Union Street in Springfield, is offering temporary care for pets owned by residents displaced by the tornado. Dakin will house and provide care for pets for 5 days. Phone: (413) 781-4000.
Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center offers services for stray animals, search and rescue
Residents can contact the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center for "field services" (search and rescue) involving animals, or if they find stray cats and dogs. The center is located at 627 Cottage Street. Phone: (413) 781-1484
Clothing, household items available at Hitchock Academy in Brimfield
Sharon Palmer, assistant director of Brimfield's Hitchcock Academy reports this morning that the school's clothing drive was an overwhelming success. Items are now available for pick-up by residents affected by the tornado. The school is located at 2 Brookfield Road, and pick-up hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
"Even more amazing than the force of the storms is the generosity, concern, and good nature of so many people in the area who contributed their time and efforts to help others," Palmer said in a press release. The clothing / item drive is now closed to further donations. "We now have more than enough donations and literally cannot handle more," Palmer said.
The map below includes shelter locations, agencies accepting donations, storm assistance centers and other resources.
View Western Massachusetts tornadoes: Resources, damage and road closures in a larger map
