“Severe tornadoes leveled many communities in Rankin County,” said the Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, III, Bishop of Mississippi.  In Rankin County, seven were injured, one critically, and 30 homes were destroyed.

In nearby Smith County, winds blew the roof off a two-story school building.  None of the 650 students and teachers were injured, after they took shelter in a first-floor hallway.

After the storm, at least 5,000 people were left without power.  Throughout Mississippi, officials counted 253 homes and mobile homes destroyed.  Fallen trees and debris littered roads and yards.  Governor Haley Barbour declared a state of emergency for the entire state.

On behalf of Episcopalians, Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency relief to the Diocese of Mississippi to help families affected by the tornadoes.

To make a contribution to help people immediately after disasters, donate online at http://www.er-d.org/ to the Emergency Relief Fund *, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can also be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, Emergency Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501(c) 3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of crisis and rebuild after disasters. We work with local communities to provide food and health care and enable children and families to climb out of poverty.