Lincoln County Fire Protection District #1 is helping coordinate a local community driven effort to provide basic supplies to the thousands of people in Joplin, MO affected by the recent devastating tornado. Many individuals and businesses want to donate items, but don’t know how they will get them to Joplin. Lincoln County Firefighters have stepped forward and will transport the first collection of desperately needed items to Joplin on Friday, May 27th. Subsequent deliveries will be made as items are collected and deliveries will continue as long as items are donated and/or needed.

Immediate need items are bottled water, cleaning supplies, trash bags, non-perishable food items, pet supplies, personal hygiene items, first aid kits and extension cords. Also needed are new and unopened packages of socks, underwear, etc. and baby supplies such as formula, diapers, and wipes. All donated items must be brand new and unopened.

Residents can drop off items at the Cherry Street firehouse in Troy or at Hawk Point City Hall. Updates such as deliveries and other drop off points may be available and will be announced on the Fire District’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lincoln-County-Fire-Protection-District-1. Be sure to “like” the Fire District today, so you receive the updates.

Tax deductible monetary donations can be made to the Lincoln County Firefighter’s Foundation. All donated funds will be used to purchase items listed above which will then be transported to Joplin. Otherwise, residents may make monetary donations to the charity of their choice such as the American Red Cross, Salvation Army or Convoy of Hope.

The Red Cross has also advised that type O Negative blood is desperately needed, with some affected areas having less than a one-day supply remaining.