Yesterday afternoon, devastating tornadoes struck Kentucky, Wisconsin, and St. Louis, Missouri. In Kentucky, 14 are reported dead. In St. Louis, at least seven deaths have been reported, along with widespread damage. At least 20 blocks of the city sustained damage. More than 5,000 properties are without power, and local emergency services are actively responding.

The North American Division Adventist Community Services Disaster Response has been in contact with local ACS teams who are currently conducting assessments and connecting with community partners to determine the most urgent needs. "Our union and local conference ACS leaders have been notified and will participate in an operational coordination call this morning (Saturday) to align our response plans," shares W. Derrick Lea, NAD ACS director. As ACS begins to respond, they urge members to pray for those impacted and those providing assistance.

He also notes that ACS was active in St. Louis this past week supporting the Your Best Pathways to Health event. These teams are now pivoting to assist in the immediate aftermath of the storm — providing both practical support and spiritual care.

At this stage, our focus is on:

• Situational assessment and information gathering;
• Preparing for potential shelter support and donations management;
• Ensuring connection with local and national VOAD (National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) partners.

Lea adds, "We will continue to monitor developments and remain engaged on the ground. Please keep our volunteers, responders, and the affected community in prayer."