Members of the Kentucky community stepping up to help tornado victims

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- People living in Kentucky communities who weren't directly affected by the tornadoes that swept through the western part of the commonwealth over the weekend, are coming up with ways to support those who need it.

"I've had goosebumps all afternoon just watching things come into this building," Rhonda Laguna, executive pastor at Northeast Christian Church, said.

Laguna reached out to pastors in Mayfield, some of whom have lost everything, trying to see what the church could do to help.

"Most of them are very tired, to be quite honest a lot of them are still in shock on what's going on," Laguna said. "They're so thankful, they're getting overwhelmed by people wanting to help."

IMAGES: Damage in western Kentucky after Dec. 10-11, 2021 tornadoes

Keeping that in mind, Laguna worked with them to figure out exactly what they need.

"We don't want to overwhelm them with things they're going to have to store, or things they don't know what to do with," Laguna said. "These are things they immediately need right now."

So began the supply drive collecting paper goods, pet food, blankets and more. The supply drive was announced during the church's 9 a.m. Sunday service and donations haven't stopped since.

"We actually put a halt on water, talking to our partners today, we feel we have enough water right now," Laguna said. "Their biggest and greatest need right now is gift cards when it comes to gas gift cards, Kroger gift cards."

Those working on the ground agree monetary donations are the biggest help right now.

"Every amount helps, every little bit," said Jeremy Jarvi, who is the Kentucky Red Cross regional chief development officer.

The Kentucky Red Cross isn't taking supplies. In part, because there isn't a place for them to store any, and sometimes certain items donated with good intentions simply aren't needed.

Red Cross is instead relying on financial contributions and working round the clock to ensure people get precisely what they need as it's needed.

"Everyone has different needs when it comes to, when they've lost everything," said Jarvi.

Both state organizations and communities reaching out realize this help will be needed far into the future.

"It's heartbreaking, it's devastating," Jarvi said. "And we want to make sure we're there for our fellow neighbors."

Northeast Christian Church will collect supplies Monday as well from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 9900 Brownsboro Road. A list of items they will accept are listed on the church's Facebook page.

They will take the items to Mayfield on Tuesday. The Kentucky Red Cross says blood donations are also welcome to assist in this time. People can schedule a blood donation here.

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