Disaster Frequently Asked Questions
The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency has a web portal with information for donations and volunteers (visit http://sema.dps.mo.gov/recover/donations.asp).
This will connect them with:
- Volunteering: Missourian’s should call 2-1-1 in most areas for information on volunteering their time or making a donation. 2-1-1 is operated by United Way and is available through much of Missouri. Out of state, or no access to 2-1-1, call 1-800-427-4626. This is the premiere place we point people. (Donors will have their info placed in the below system)
- Donations: The National Donations Management Network is what 211 and other organizations are using to sign up and organize donations, services and equipment. Go to http://www.aidmatrixnetwork.org/fema/ and click on Missouri.
Cash is preferred method because it offers voluntary agencies the most flexibility to obtain the most-needed resources, helping restore human dignity and pumps money into the local economy to help businesses recover as well.
Those with medical skills accredited in Missouri who are interested in volunteering can go online at www.showmeresponse.org. Those with medical skills from outside of Missouri can sign up to volunteer at: http://www.phe.gov/esarvhp/.
Those with medical skills from outside of Missouri who are interested in volunteering can go online at www.showmeresponse.org. Those with medical skills from outside of Missouri can sign up to volunteer at: http://www.phe.gov/esarvhp/.
Unsolicited donated goods such as used clothing, miscellaneous household items, and mixed or perishable food items may not meet the needs of disaster survivors. These items require additional time to sort and process. Anyone wanting to donate these items, should be directed to The National Donations Management Network above.
Missourians who need immediate disaster assistance information, shelter information or referrals are urged to call 2-1-1, or 800-427-4626, or go to www.redcross.org for a list of open shelters. For individuals with a hearing loss, call 7-1-1 or to use Video Relay Service to reach 2-1-1 or 800-427-4626.
- When someone is found: Have them register with the Red Cross database: www.Redcross.org/safeandwell. Also, have them call 1-417-659-5464.
- Looking for someone: Have them check: www.Redcross.org/safeandwell. Also they can call: 1-800-733-2767
- Reporting missing people: Call: 1-800-733-2767 (IMPORTANT: encourage them to make sure the person is taken off the list when found).
For those who have been affected in Minnesota or other states outside Missouri or those who want to help can visit www.fema.gov/howtohelp.
For information about unemployment assistance visit: http://labor.mo.gov/Disaster/.
For those impacted by the recent tornadoes and severe storms, the disaster recovery process begins by registering with FEMA. The process is free, takes about 20 minutes and is available three ways:
- Register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov
- Those with smartphones may register through m.FEMA.gov ; click “Apply Online for FEMA Assistance,” and you will be directed to www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
- If you prefer to register by phone, the toll-free FEMA registration line is 800-621-FEMA (3362).
If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY call 800-462-7585; or use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) to call 1-800-621-3362. Telephone registration is available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.