Alton, Mo. – Terrible storms with strong winds and, possibly, a tornado or several tornadoes spread throughout the area on Friday. Many lost power, and others had no water. Some homes lost shingles or outbuildings, and a few families lost their homes. What is needed? Where can you go for help? How can you help? Here are some answers.
Water
Water is always necessary, whether you drink or wash with it. Purchasing water can be expensive if you go without service for several days. There are alternatives. First, the Alton Volunteer Fire Department is giving away free water. Just stop by, no questions asked. Of course, grocery stores are selling water.
If you have your jugs, the Alton First Baptist Church has water. If you arrive with no one present, they offer two outside spigots for free. Inside the church, there are free showers and laundry facilities. Come as you are, and they will help. They have cots and blankets for sleeping. Please bring your own pillows.
Additionally, schools in the area have showers available to any student who wants/ needs one.
Rover and Thomasville residents can stop by their local volunteer fire departments for water, food, and assistance. All of these locations are taking water donations.
Food
The Alton Volunteer Fire Department offers free hot meals and canned foods. It is located next to Harps Grocery Store on US 160 West and is open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. as long as the public needs help. Additionally, if you stop by the First Baptist Church, they have hot evening meals. They will stay open as long as the public needs them.
Donations
Each of these locations is taking food and supply donations. You can also donate financially if you prefer.
Assistance
Some yards and driveways are full of debris. If you need help clearing your property, do not hesitate to call Chris with Oregon County Emergency Management at 417-270-0069, the sheriff’s office at 417-778-6611, or the First Baptist Church at 1417-372-0142.
The First Baptist Church is available for welfare checks. Members will help the community all week. If you need something brought to you, call them, and they will help.
Faith Tabernacle in Rover, Missouri, was also heading up assistance to replace fencing and round up lost cattle.
Supplies
Alongside assistance in clearing your land, residents need tarps. While many were handed out Saturday, more tarps have been requested from Convoy of Hope. Those in need could use canned food. Some items, like canned ravioli or spaghetti, can be heated up or eaten from the can if necessary. MREs would be especially helpful at this time.
We appreciate the hard work of the volunteers and donors. We pray for a quick recovery for all those experiencing loss.
While experts are still gathering information to determine if there were tornadoes in the area on Friday, March 14, 2025, many residents believe the winds were strong enough to substantiate the idea of a tornado or multiple tornadoes.
