World Vision Readying Supplies for Survivors of Deadly Oklahoma Tornadoes

DALLAS, Texas (May 20, 2013) - Less than one week following deadly tornadoes in Texas, World Vision is readying relief supplies for families and communities affected by new devastating storms in Oklahoma.

“We’re heartbroken to hear the reports that so many children lost their lives in this storm,” said Phyllis Freeman, World Vision US’s domestic disaster response director.  “We are already hearing that this could be worse than the storms that struck Oklahoma in 1999, and that more severe weather is on its way.  Our staff are preparing themselves – these communities have a difficult time ahead of them.”

World Vision teams will assess the need in the affected areas in the coming days.  In the meantime, staff members are already positioning relief supplies at World Vision’s domestic disaster response warehouse in Grand Prairie, Texas.  The supplies will target the most vulnerable children and families in the hardest hit areas, and will include emergency food kits, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, blankets and tarps.

“Right now, the roads into the affected communities are closed,” said Freeman.  “But as soon as we can get in, we’ve got assessment teams ready to go.”

Workers at the domestic disaster response warehouse will be loading supplies into trucks Tuesday in preparation for deployment to the affected communities.

In 2012, World Vision US’s Domestic Disaster Response team provided relief for more than 47,000 people, including more than 30,000 children. This year, World Vision continues to assist the most vulnerable affected by Superstorm Sandy in New York and New Jersey and has provided relief and rebuilding supplies to those affected by tornado damage in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.  Last week, World Vision responded with relief supplies and emergency kits to the families affected by the deadly tornadoes in north Texas.

To schedule an interview with staff currently in north Texas or at World Vision’s headquarters in the Seattle area, please contact Amy Parodi at 253.709.3190.