Joplin Tornado First Response Fund started

From the city of Joplin:

The City of Joplin, in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Southwest Missouri (CFSWMO), has established the Joplin Tornado First Response Fund for donors interested in supporting mid- and long term community redevelopment efforts.

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks will accept contributions to the Joplin Tornado First Response Fund on behalf of CFSWMO. Donations can be made online at:www.cfozarks.org/donate , and please note “Joplin Tornado First Response Fund” in the fund/program box. Or, if citizens would rather donate by check, they can be mailed to: Joplin Tornado First Response Fund c/o Community Foundation of the Ozarks, P.O. Box 8960, Springfield, MO 65801. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the IRS.

A committee comprised of city employees and community members will be formed as part of this effort. Upon request of the committee, the Community Foundation of the Ozarks shall disburse amounts from the Fund to support the immediate needs of the Joplin area that have been affected by the tornado. Distributions will be made to 501c3 nonprofit organizations, school districts, churches or government entities.

Our city and residents continue to be encouraged and humbled by the outpouring of support on so many levels from volunteer time, equipment, food and shelter and financial donations.