(MURFREESBORO)  The local American Red Cross continues to help those who were devestated by last weeks tornadoes. At this point, 5 deaths have been confirmed in Tennessee and 75 were killed in neighboring Kentucky. 

More than 450 trained American Red Cross volunteers and staff from all over the country are helping in Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Missouri. These Red Cross volunteers are focused on providing shelter, meals, comfort, and support in the face of the deadliest tornado outbreak in a decade.

Some two dozen emergency response vehicles are moving through the affected areas where possible. We are working around the clock to help those in need, as quickly as possible.

On Friday (12/17/2021) the American Red Cross helped tornado victims in the Volunteer State:

• In Tennessee, over 430 homes are listed as having either major damage or completely destroyed
• Served more than 4,588 meals and snacks
• Distributed 5277 relief items to over 520 households
• Made 342 individual care contacts to support physical, mental health and spiritual needs of those affected
• Supported by 123 on the ground and virtual American Red Cross volunteers

Earlier in the week: 

• Damage assessment is complete by trained disaster volunteers.  Of 1,253 homes (including apartments/mobile homes) impacted in Tennessee, 174 are listed as destroyed, 249 with major damage (presently unlivable), 312 have minor damage, and 442 are listed as affected (cosmetic damage or damage to non-living areas like sheds, garages, etc.)
• Served more than 3,370 meals and snacks
• Distributed almost 1,100 relief items
• Made about 118 individual care contacts to support physical, mental health and spiritual needs of those affected
• Supported by 105 on the ground and virtual American Red Cross volunteers

For information on the Tennessee disaster response, or to find out how you can help following a disaster, go to RedCross.org/Tennessee.