Elon University to help with N.C. tornado relief efforts

The Kernodle Center for Service Learning and Community Engagement at Elon University is coordinating a trip on Saturday, April 23, to Methodist University in Fayetteville, N.C., for students who wish to help clear debris from the recent tornados in surrounding communities.

A tornado approaches Sanford, N.C., on April 16, 2011. (Photo credit: Flickr/Donald Lee Pardue)

The partnership with Methodist University is one of several ways the Elon community can contribute to relief efforts from the April 16 storms that devastated parts of North Carolina.

Vans will be leaving from Elon at 9 a.m. on Saturday and returning around 8 p.m. Students interested in assisting those affected by the recent storms should contact the Kernodle Center to sign up at elonvols@elon.edu, (336) 278-7250, or stop by the office in Moseley 230.

A supply drive for areas affected by tornado in Sampson County southeast of Raleigh, N.C., is also being held. Students, faculty and staff can take non-perishable food items, coloring books, crayons (anything to help keep children busy) and jugged water to the Kernodle Center. The Kappa Delta sorority will deliver these items this weekend.

Ten families in Alamance County lost their homes and 30 families sustained severe damage to their homes due to the storm Saturday. The local chapter of the American Red Cross is helping these families with emergency shelter and other supplies.

To make a donation to meet local needs, please send your check to: The American Red Cross, PO Box 876, Burlington, NC 27216, or stop by their offices at 511 W. Davis St., Burlington, NC 27216.