For Immediate Release March 07, 2012

Contact: Roger Conner (703) 236-6218 (301) 252-7912

Catholic Charities Responding to Aftermath of Tornadoes

Coordination underway with Catholic Charities agencies in eight States
Alexandria, VA Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) is coordinating efforts with its local agencies across the Midwest and Southern states in the aftermath of last weeks tornadoes and storms. Reports confirm 77 tornado touchdowns between February 28th and March 2nd that caused 53 deaths and severely damaged properties across numerous states and counties. We are in constant communication with our local agencies to assist in mobilizing staff, volunteers, and resources, says Kim Burgo, Sr. Director of Disaster Operations for CCUSA. Our priority is to provide disaster survivors with immediate and long-term support. CCUSA is working closely with Catholic Charities agencies in Missouri, Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, North Carolina, Alabama and Illinois to reach affected areas. Agencies have been providing immediate assistance and are beginning the process of helping individuals and families with long-term recovery. In recent years, CCUSA has provided nationwide disaster response services in more than 400 local and national level disasters, including the aftermath of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and recent 2011 storms. To help Catholic Charities assist people in need, visit the Catholic Charities USA Disaster Donation Page. About Catholic Charities USA Catholic Charities USA is the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. Catholic Charities USAs members provide help and create hope for more than 10 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. For almost 300 years, Catholic Charities agencies have worked to reduce poverty by providing a myriad of vital services in their communities, ranging from health care and job training to food and housing. ###