As communities across Indiana and Illinois rebuild from the damage left by dozens of tornadoes that touched down mid-November, Direct Relief’s team continues to stay in contact with its clinic and health center partners near the affected areas and is monitoring health needs.

The storms killed at least six people, injured 200 more, and destroyed hundreds of homes.

Staff at Family Health Clinic of Carroll County in Delphi, Indiana provided the team with this update:

“We are actually doing very well in terms of the storms. We have had some people without electricity but it has not impacted our patient flow a whole lot… Be assured that we would give you a call if we needed anything in terms of support immediately. We know you are there and we appreciate you checking with us.”

As clean up efforts continue, Direct Relief will remain ready to respond to any requests for assistance that may arise. Clean up and rescue activities can cause as many injuries as the storm itself. Falling objects and sharp debris, like nails, can cause acute wounds and put people at risk of contracting bacterial diseases, such as tetanus. Damaged power lines, gas lines, or electrical systems can increase risk of fire, electrocution, or an explosion.

Direct Relief has offered assistance to its health partners near the affected areas. Items such as antibiotics, wound care, personal protection items, and chronic disease medicines are frequently requested to help people affected by severe storms.

While Family Health Clinic has not requested emergency supplies, Direct Relief is currently preparing a shipment of medicines and medical supplies for the clinic as part of its ongoing Safety Net Support Program.

Related posts: Responding to Deadly Midwest Tornadoes