Donations being accepted to aid Oklahoma storm victims

It was barely two years ago when droves of people from across the country arrived in Franklin County to offer any kind of help they could to our local residents.

The EF-5 tornado that ripped across Franklin County destroying homes, businesses and churches and leaving 26 dead on April 27, 2011, is something that most county residents will never forget.

But, now it’s our turn to help.

A similar EF-5 tornado leveled areas of Oklahoma this week, particularly just outside of Oklahoma City in a suburb called Moore.

“We want to be givers, not just takers,” said Rodney Baker, of East Franklin.

Remembering the outpouring of support that Franklin County received following the massive storm two years ago, Baker and a group of local volunteers decided they wanted to do something to help the folks in Oklahoma.

A trailer will be set up at Russellville Fire Station #2 on U.S. 43 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday for local residents to make donations.

The items will be delivered to Oklahoma on Sunday.

The following items are needed most: nonperishable food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, tarps, rakes, shovels, large plastic tote boxes, new linens and sleeping bags, personal hygiene items, baby items and toys.

For more information contact Tony at 256-483-0919 or Rodney at 256-324-2233.