WAPT will hold an all-day tornado relief drive on Monday, April 24 from 6 a.m.-7 p.m.
The 16 WAPT Tornado Relief Drive, in partnership with the Mississippi Food Network, will take place at the I-55 Kroger in Jackson. The Hearst-owned ABC affiliate is looking to collect food, cleaning supplies and other essential items for tornado survivors and affected communities in the aftermath of last month’s devastating tornado outbreak.
During the March 24 tornado outbreak, an estimated 20 tornadoes swept through Mississippi, causing widespread destruction and leaving a significant number of families without homes, food, and basic necessities. Rolling Fork and Silver City were among the hardest-hit areas, with numerous homes and buildings destroyed or severely damaged and over 20 lives lost.
According to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, the following items are most needed:
Non-perishable food and drink (especially caffeinated and sports drinks)
Hygiene products (feminine, toothpaste, toothbrushes)
Laundry detergent and cleaning supplies
Baby items (formula, diapers)
Paper products
Monetary donations will also be accepted online at WAPT.com.
“Last month’s tornado outbreak was devastating to our neighbors in the Delta, and the need for donations is still high today,” said Peter Keith, president and general manager of WAPT. “We urge everyone who can to contribute, whether by donating in-person or online, as these communities continue to rebuild.”
WAPT’s Tornado Relief Drive will wrap up with the broadcast of a station special called Mississippi Tornadoes: Recovering and Rebuilding at 6:30 p.m. The 30-minute commercial-free special will revisit the hardest hit communities, updating viewers on the recovery process, the impact of volunteers and donations, and the ongoing community needs exactly one month after the tornado outbreak.
Additional tornado coverage will be provided the morning of Wednesday, April 26 from 7-9 a.m. CST during Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts‘ broadcasts live from Rolling Fork, Miss.
For more information on the 16 WAPT Tornado Relief Drive, including a list of needed items and how to donate online, visit WAPT.com.