Spring Storm System Devastates Southeast and Midwest
March 19, 2025 | Concord, VA – This past weekend, a major spring storm system swept through the Southeast and Midwest, causing widespread destruction. The storm spawned multiple dust storms and tornadoes, and spread destructive wildfires, resulting in the loss of hundreds of homes, businesses, churches, and schools across 12 states. Tragically, at least 42 people have lost their lives, and countless others are facing turmoil.
Local disaster relief nonprofit, Gleaning For The World, based in Concord, VA, is mobilizing to provide essential supplies and hope to the affected residents. Over the past few days, Gleaning For The World has been working with its extensive network of partner organizations to identify the communities most in need and their specific requirements.
Jane Goodall once said, “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” Inspired by this sentiment, Gleaning For The World is committed to helping those in need, but they can't do it alone. They are calling on the public to join them in making a difference for fellow Americans during this critical time.
Donation Drive at Sam’s Club
Gleaning For The World has announced a donation drive at Sam’s Club on Wards Road in Lynchburg. They will be accepting donations of non-perishable food, diapers (both baby and adult), cleaning supplies, personal care items, and pet food on Thursday and Friday this week (March 20 and 21) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
“The scale of devastation this spring storm system has left in its wake throughout the Southeast and Midwest is staggering,” said Jeane Smiley-Mason, President of Gleaning For The World. “The number of lives impacted across 12 states, not to mention the lives lost, is inconceivable. We are asking our community to not only keep these families in their prayers but also to join us in providing tangible assistance.”
A complete list of needed supplies is available on Gleaning For The World’s website, their Facebook page, and in person at Sam’s Club. You can also call 434-993-3600 to receive an emailed copy of the list.
How to Make a Financial Donation
For those interested in making a financial donation to help cover the costs of transporting these supplies to the impacted communities, a secure donation page is available here. Alternatively, checks with “Spring Storms 2025” in the memo line can be mailed to:
Gleaning For The World
PO Box 645
Concord, VA 24538