Laurel County sheriff shares update, resources for tornado victims

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — In the wake of Friday night’s deadly tornado outbreak, Laurel County Sheriff John Root is urging residents to stay strong and take advantage of the relief resources now in place across the county.

In a statement released Sunday, Sheriff Root said the tornadoes that tore through the area left behind a path of devastation, but also revealed the community’s strength and resilience. He said sheriff’s deputies are actively patrolling impacted areas to help ensure public safety and prevent any instances of looting.

“We understand that the road to recovery will be long, but please know that help is here,” the sheriff said.

Sheriff Root said his office is working closely with local churches, organizations and emergency response teams to provide shelter, meals, water, clothing, medical aid and other essential services to those affected.

A full list of relief resources was released by the sheriff’s office and includes:

All supplies available at:
Faith Assembly, Hart Baptist, First Baptist, Victory Life, Horizon Health, Victory Baptist and Redemption Church.

Shelter options include:
First Baptist, Praxel Line Services, Lodge at Cumberland Falls, Piney Grove Holiness, Wildcat Harley Davidson, Dodge City Campground, Victory Life Church, Bethel London Multicultural Church, and Pine Grove Church.

Meals are being provided by:
Piney Grove Holiness Church, Lori Wells Marcum-Patriot Realty, Star of Bethlehem United Church, Happy Express Mart, Moody Cows, and Mercy Chef (serving lunch and dinner at Faith Assembly).

Additional resources:

• Water and ice: WD Bryant

• Tetanus shots: Walmart Pharmacy

• Mental health support: Heartstrings

• Clothing: CatchN Deals

• Hair washing: HeadSpa of London

Pet assistance:
Gone to the Dogs Boarding, Rowdy Dog Retreat, Corbin Animal Clinic, and Forgotten Felines.

For families with children enrolled in Laurel County Schools:
The Family Resource and Youth Service Centers will be available by phone starting Monday morning to help connect families with needed resources.

Also, if you need more information on disaster relief, you can contact the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office at 606-864-6600, personal message the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office Facebook, or email g.acciardo@laurelcountysheriff.gov.

Sheriff Root encouraged everyone to continue looking out for one another and said the community would get through this together. “We care deeply about our community and are committed to supporting you every step of the way,” he said