Winneshiek County Emergency Management Director has some advice about aid to Joplin

Winneshiek County Emergency Management  Director Bruce Goetsch says Joplin, Missouri is getting overwhelmed with unsolicited donations in the wake of the tornado that devastated that town.

He wants to spend the word to discourage people from sending unsolicited donations to Joplin.  Goetsch says such donations divert resources to sort, package, transport, warehouse, and distribute items that may not meet the needs of disaster survivors.       

Goetsch says you should confirm the needs in Joplin by contacting the voluntary organization of your choice before starting to collect items.  Donate in-kind goods that are specifically requested or needed by recognized organizations.  

Cash is the best donation, says Goetsch, because it offers voluntary agencies the most flexibility in obtaining the most-needed resources.  But he again stresses that potential donors should confirm what is needed BEFORE taking action.