CCUSA and Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri are on the ground in Joplin, Mo., joining the effort to aid survivors of the devastating tornadoes that hit the area days ago. As the need for help continues to grow, the agencies are beginning relief support efforts in a role that has become all too familiar this spring. Over the past month, CCUSA has been coordinating with Catholic Charities agencies to provide food, clothing and shelter for victims of tornadoes in Alabama and floods in Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.

"This has been an absolutely brutal Spring Storm season in the U.S. and now our hearts are saddened once again and our resources tested by this disaster in Joplin," said Kathleen King, SVP of External Relations for CCUSA. "From the earlier tornadoes in Alabama, to the recent flooding, to this downtown devastation in Missouri - the human need is huge and donations are essential."

Over the past month, CCUSA has been coordinating with Catholic Charities agencies to provide food, clothing and shelter for victims of the Alabama tornadoes, and most recently, for the flood-impacted areas of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. The severity of the situations has created a huge need for financial donations to support the assistance efforts. Now, the disaster that has cut through the heart of Joplin further increases the need.

Catholic Charities not only joins forces with all other disaster first responders to deliver immediate relief, but also stays the course over a long period of time - often a year or more - to provide case management services for all individuals and families that need extended help to put their lives back together and find employment.

To contribute help and support to those in need in these areas and others, please visit the Catholic Charities USA disaster donation Web page.