Want to Help Storm Victims?

We've received an overwhelming number of calls from our citizens on how they can help victims of the storms on Saturday. Here is a list that hopefully be taken advantage of.

Emergency services personnel and the Red Cross are asking volunteers not to enter areas impacted by Saturday’s tornadoes.

Utility crews are still working to restore power, and officials are asking those who want to volunteer to do so outside the areas hardest hit by the storm.

Lee County is under a State of Emergency and a curfew is in effect from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Hours of operation for response agencies will vary on Monday and throughout the week. It’s best to call first to check on needs, volunteer opportunities exact times service can be rendered.

** For the latest updates, visit our page or the Facebook pages of these organizations:

# Lee County Red Cross

# United Way of Lee County

# Neighbors Helping Neighbors

# Social Sanford

# The Sanford Herald

** VOLUNTEERS: According to the local Red Cross office, the most pressing needs are not volunteers, but financial assistance. Take donations to the Red Cross’ office at 507 N. Steele Street or call (919) 774-6857.

** OTHER NEEDS: Donations of blankets, pillows (especially for children), sheets, food, wrapped snacks, diapers, wipes, toiletries, trash bags, work gloves, cleaning supplies, food, bottled drinks and more can be made at the county’s official temporary shelter at San-Lee Middle School. Lee Builder Mart, on Horner Boulevard, will be open Monday for those who want to donate toward building supplies for those whose homes were damaged. Clothing made by donated at The Salvation Army’s thrift store on S. Steele Street.

** THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SANFORD: The clubs will be open this week for school-ages children in Lee County whose families were impacted by the storm from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. (and from 6:30 a.m. once the curfew is lifted). Breakfast and lunch will be provided. There is no cost. For more information, call (919) 776-3525. Club members will direct children to participate in a number of activities while parents are working to recover from the storm.

** FURNITURE: Furniture will be collected at the Jaycee Hut at 809 Tryon Street in Sanford. Call (919) 356-5636.

** SHELTER: San-Lee Middle School, off Tramway Road, is the local shelter.

** PETS: All Animals Veterinary Hospital is collecting pet supplies (cat litter, litter boxes and pet food). Donations can be dropped off during regular business hours. For more information, call (919) 775-4944. If you’d like to foster an abandoned or found pet, contact CARA of Sanford at (919) 774-9433.

** POWER LINES: Do not attempt to move or maneuver around them. If you see a downed line, call 800 419-6356.