{This is a recent article from the Huntsville Times on Volunteerism during the Tornado Disaster.}
Congressman Mo Brooks, who represents Alabama's Fifth District, spoke about surveying the damage areas by air. He and other elected leaders from north Alabama did this on Friday in two Blackhawk helicopters with staff from Redstone Arsenal.
"It's quite revealing when you see these main TVA transmission lines, when they're reduced to rubble," said Congressman Brooks.
He said Alabama will return to full strength but urged volunteers to step forward and help make that happen.
"If you're able to help, find people who have been damaged in these tornadoes, and assist with cleanup while we have this good weather," said Brooks. "If you're able to assist your friends and neighbors, please do so. If you have a chainsaw, please help."
If you'd like to help in the Harvest area, please go to the Monrovia Community Center. Staff will begin processing volunteers after lunchtime Saturday. The center is located at 254 Allen Drake Drive, Huntsville, AL 35806. The phone number is (256) 489-3366.
You can also go to First Baptist Church on Governors Drive in Huntsville.
You must be processed and have a valid ID to enter the damaged areas. There are many, many areas with damage, including Anderson Hills, Old Railroad Bed Road, Orville Smith Road, Smith Vasser Road, Lockhart Road, Yarbrough Road, Stovall Road, Stone Mill, Arnold Road, Carters Gin Road, Boll Weevil Road, Beaver Dam Road, Pulaski Pike and Welcome Home Village.
"Stay away, unless you have legitimate business there. Please this weekend, do not just drive in the area," urged Gillespie. "All that does is hinder those who are trying to help the victims."
Redstone Arsenal
Redstone Arsenal is open. Leaders stressed if you need assistance, and you're a member of the military, you can get on the Arsenal. They also urged workers, including contractors, to contact their companies if they have not already done so. The decision on whether Redstone Arsenal will be open on Monday will be made Sunday.
Donations - Cash Urged
The best way to donate is to give cash to the American Red Cross or the United Way. Your money will be used directly for tornado victims.
Rusty Russell, Director of the Madison County EMA, urged people not to take clothes or other goods to relief sites.
"All those items create another mission," said Russell. "Don't clean out your attic and bring your old clothes."
Russell encouraged people to call the Salvation Army if they would like to donate materials or goods. The phone number for the Salvation Army office in Huntsville is (256) 536-5576.
Garbage Collection
Gillespie said garbage collection for Huntsville and Madison County should resume on Monday.
Read more at http://huntsvilletimes.com/.
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