Tornado Relief
The Auburn Family has a long history of pitching in and helping those in need, especially after a tragic event like the March 3 tornadoes. There are many ways to contribute to help our community recover from these devastating storms, and we invite you to join us. There are no easy fixes or fast solutions, but together, we can help those affected rebuild by supporting the efforts of the organizations listed on this page.
Donate
Governor's Relief Fund
Help our community recover and rebuild by supporting the Governor’s Relief Fund. Contributions will go directly to the United Way with 100% of donations directed to disaster relief. Click the “Donate Here” button for the Governor’s Relief Fund, then click on that site’s “Donate” button. Choose the option for Lee County or you may designate gifts to areas of greatest need.
Donate HereCommunity Foundation of East Alabama
A recovery fund has been set up by the Community Foundation of East Alabama for donors seeking an official conduit to contribute monetarily to the recovery effort.
Donate HereRed Cross Donations
To donate, text REDCROSS to 90999 to give $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, which helps people affected by disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires and tornadoes.
Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. All purchases must be authorized by account holder. Must be 18 years of age or have parental permission to participate. Message and Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to 90999 to STOP. Text HELP to 90999 for HELP. Full Terms and Privacy Policy
Volunteer
Most job sites will be outdoors for the entire volunteer shift. Please wear jeans or long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toe shoes. Work gloves, hats, and safety glasses or sunglasses are also recommended. Do not wear shorts or open-toed shoes. A coat or jacket may also be needed depending on the temperature.
In the spirit of Auburn’s tradition of service, the university is supportive of faculty and staff who wish to volunteer their time to assist recovery efforts following the devastating March 3 tornadoes in Lee County. Accordingly, employees who choose to volunteer will be able to utilize up to 8 hours of paid community service leave through December 31 and will not be required to use annual leave.
When choosing a date to volunteer, employees should consider their work schedule and obtain prior approval from their supervisor.
Volunteers are needed at the recovery effort’s storage facility located at 309 Williamson Ave., Opelika. There is signage in the area that directs to this location, and there are openings for volunteers daily, including weekends, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.
To volunteer for clean-up efforts, please note this work will occur outside and requires physical labor.
Resources
Debris removal following tornadoes
The Lee County Highway Department states that those who have debris as a result of the tornadoes should push the debris to the "right of way," no closer than three feet from the edge of the pavement. Do not block driveways or gutters. Do not place debris around fire hydrants or any other utilities.
Separate debris by vegetative (trees and limbs), construction materials (wood and insulation) and large appliances.
Off-campus donation sites
The Lee County, Alabama Emergency Management Agency has developed a map of approved distribution and drop-off locations. The map will be updated regularly and is available online.
- First Baptist Church Opelika, located at the corner of 8th Street and C Avenue: Tuesday, March 5 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Trinity United Methodist Church fellowship hall, located at 800 2nd Ave. in Opelika: Tuesday, March 5, to Thursday, March 7, from 1-4 p.m. and Friday, March 8, from 8 a.m.-noon.
- Greater Peace Baptist Church, located at 650 Jeter Ave. in Opelika: Tuesday, March 5, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Distribution sites
- Providence Baptist Church, located at 2807 Lee County Road 166 in Opelika: distribution center is open 24/7.
- Greater Peace Baptist Church, located at 650 Jeter Ave. in Opelika: Tuesday, March 5, to Friday, March 8, from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, March 9, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.