Many moving forward following Kokomo tornadoes
KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) — There are signs of progress in Kokomo after last week’s tornadoes.
The Red Cross emergency shelter closed Thursday evening. Less than a week ago, around 250 people stayed there. On Thursday, there were none. It’s a good indication that fewer people are displaced and things are getting back to normal.
One lone cot at the emergency shelter; boots and belongings ready to move to the next destination. If there was ever a sign of progress, it’d be the packed up food that, just days ago, fed hundreds. There were also cots piled on top of one another, ready to be shipped; no blankets or pillows, only a sign taped to the door letting people know, they’re closed.
“Once we get to the position where it’s not feasible to have a large shelter opened staff-wise, then there are other resources we can move into for that,” said American Red Cross spokesperson Mark Slusher.
Wednesday night, less than 10 people stayed. Slusher says they assisted the remaining few with motel accommodations. They’re transitioning from providing food and shelter to client assistance.
“People come in, sit down with a caseworker, go over their individual case and then, based on that, Red Cross assistance is rendered to them,” he explained.
Although many are moving back into their homes, or finding housing, some are nowhere close. Like George Pina for example, his house is nothing more than a few walls standing on a foundation.
“I’ve been staying at the Days Inn, Motel 6. Now, I’m at the Super 8 at the moment, for a longer period of time now,” he said.
After motel living, Pina will move on to an apartment for a few months while his house is rebuilt.
“It’s not going to be totally 100 percent back to normal. But at least, hopefully, it’ll be something close,” he said.
The Red Cross will continue to be onsite at the Kokomo Event Center from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Their case workers will help people in need find housing, financial assistance, food and other necessities. You can also call 211 to find out where you can receive help.