Annie Hartweg asking for help

[SS427]

Annie contacted myself and Dennis Cumby last night and asked us to pass on a couple of things as she has not been able to sign on to her computer since last week. First she wanted to thank all those who expressed concern for her's and other's well beings who live in the Springfield area. Secondly and most importantly she asked for anyones help who was willing to donate. Since last Friday morning after hearing a radio plea asking for volunteers to help feed workers and residents, she has been volunteering at one of several canteens set up by the Salvation Army to help feed and clothe the victims of last weeks tornado.
http://www.tsaspringfield.org

She told me that she never had a clue how bad it was until she got into the thick of things and saw it with her own eyes. At one point she had to ask for directions as she had no clue where she was at since all the landmarks were gone. She stated that at least 50% of Springfields population was effected in some way by the storm damage and most of that percentage lost major portions of their belongings and homes. It was very heart wrenching to hear some of the stories that she told me of people that she had fed since Friday and it has taken a toll on her.

Annie asked me to pass along her request since she cannot to ask anyone who could to donate ANYTHING they are able to. She said even the most basic items are needed such as; UNDERWEAR and DIAPERS!!! toilet paper, water, towels, plastic silverware, baggies, sandwich bags, garbage bags, paper bags, women's personal items, paper towels, plastic cups, blankets, paper plates, canned goods, boxed food items, bedding, clothes, childrens toys such as stuffed animals, tooth paste and toothbrushes, combs, razors, shaving cream, deodorant, dog and cat food, and most of all, money.

Annie stated that in the areas that she has worked in that most people lost everything they owned and are living day to day. Many families are taking only 1 or two meals from her and trying to feed their whole families off of that and are more than appreciative to even get ANY warm food as much of the area is still without power and it has been 28* at night. Annie also stessed that Springfield was only one of several areas that were hit by the tornadoes in several states and asked that everyone also consider contributing and/or to them. She did not have information on those addresses but this is the one for the Springfield donations. Please send any and all donations to; The Salvation Army 530 N. Sixth Street, Springfield, IL, 62702.

Annie asked me to pass on her sincere appreciation for everyone's well wishes and concerns and wanted to thank you in advance for any help you can provide to the people of Springfield and other cities effected by these tornadoes.
Annie Hartweg