Storm survivor says she had ‘terrifying’ feeling
SIKESTON, Mo. (KBSI) – Survivors are still recovering after a weekend that left them wondering what their future will look like.
Ann Vastmans, regional manager with the American Red Cross, says they are here to help with that.
“We saw a need within the community for a sheltering, and so the first night that we opened was Sunday and we had 33 residents that stayed overnight,” said Vastmans.
Vastmans says that the American Red Cross saw a need for their support in the Sikeston area.
“Our numbers kind of fluctuate and then during anything they are going to their houses to start that clean-up effort and so forth, but they are here to provide a safe place and they can stay overnight if they need it,” said Vastmans.
She also mentioned how many people have utilized the safety facility throughout the recovery process after the storm. According to her, on the first night there were 33 residents. On May 27, two days after the storm, there were 10 people staying overnight at the shelter at the local YMCA.
The Red Cross staff reminds residents that they are more than welcome to use the facility throughout the day, rather they need to charge their phones, get some food, or just relax in a safe environment.
Survivor Lindsey Crosier, long-time resident of Sikeston, says she’s never been more scared in her life than during the storm.
Crosier says she had a ” terrifying” feeling.
“My neighbor directly beside me said he saw the tornado and it didn’t touch down all the way but if it had it would have flattened the entire street,” said Crosier.
Her hopes for the future, she says, is just coming out of this on the other side.
“I’ve been without power since we lost the power and it’s just been very hectic without a car,” said Crosier. “I just got my car fixed today and as soon as I got my car fixed, I came here because we haven’t had any kind of food whatsoever and I’m worried about my babies and as long as they get food that all that matters to me.”
“So, we have damage assessment teams that will be coming in,” said Vastmans. “There are teams of volunteers that will go out and assess the damage that has happened to the homes, and we also have supplies that are going to be coming, that we will be able to distribute to the communities.”
As the disaster response continues, the American Red Cross plans to continue working with the families affected by the storm by offering more supplies and aid to the community.
According to Vastmans, “Damage assessment teams will be coming, and there are teams of volunteers that will go out and assess the damage that has happened to the homes. We also have supplies, that are going to be coming, that we will be able to distribute to the communities.”
American Red Cross services are free and available to all regardless of race, religious beliefs, nationality, or citizenship status.
Those wishing to assist the Red Cross in responding to community disasters, can donate to help aid future disaster responses. To donate, call 1-800 RED CROSS or donate online at redcross.org. To volunteer to assist the Red Cross in responding to disasters, go to redcross.org.
