Charitable organizations put out call for help

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, May 8, 2007 by Mike Hall

By Mike Hall

THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

The best way to help the victims of the recent weather disasters - for the moment anyway - is with money.

Dana Wethington, chief executive officer of the Kansas Capital Area Red Cross, said when the floodwaters recede and people return to their homes (the lucky ones who have homes to return to), they will need clothing, food, prescriptions, eyeglasses - it is difficult to imagine what all needs to be replaced.

Maj. Teri Martsolf, of the Topeka Salvation Army, agreed.

"The people in Greensburg aren't going to be ready for 'things' for quite some time," she said.

Both women agreed it will take time to sort out the particular needs of individuals and families and what other assistance may be available to them, such as insurance.

Maj. Mark Martsolf, also of the Topeka Salvation Army, said the only helpful gift other than money is bottled water.

The Salvation Army is looking for a warehouse close to Greensburg to help with the long-term effort to rebuild the town. He predicted the effort would take seven years.

How to help:

n Red Cross: Money may be donated directly to the Red Cross office at 1221 S.W. 17th or through the Red Cross Web site - www.redcross.org - or through the Red Cross toll-free number - (866) 990-9910. Designate your gift for the "Kansas response."

n Salvation Army: Money may be sent to the Salvation Army at P.O. Box 599, Topeka 66601. The money can be designated for Greensburg relief or for flooding relief or may be left undesignated.

n United Way of the Plains: Checks should be made out to the United Way Greensburg Disaster Fund and mailed to 245 N. Water, Wichita, Kan., 67202.

Mike Hall can be reached at (785) 295-1209 or mike.hall@cjonline.com.