In the wake of widespread destruction in Lynchburg and Amherst County neighborhoods as a result of Sunday evening’s storm, several community groups have organized donations and volunteer efforts to help mitigate the damage.
In a Monday news release, the city of Lynchburg stated it’s not seeking volunteers and instead stressed safety precautions because of the large number of downed power lines and tree limbs.
Similarly, the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office said in a Monday Facebook post that donations aren’t needed at the command post or emergency shelter. The sheriff’s office also advised would-be donors to be on the lookout for scams.
Gleaning for the World is asking for financial donations and disaster relief supplies to help those in need because of the storm. Credit card donations can be made at and checks can be mailed to: Gleaning for the World, PO Box 645, Concord, VA 24538
It is also accepting donations at the Wards Road Sam’s Club from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Wednesday. Any donated products need to be new or unused. Products needed include nonperishable food, baby supplies, hygiene supplies.
For more information on giving to Gleaning, call (434) 993-3600.
The Salvation Army of Greater Lynchburg is also accepting donations of “individual sized bottled drinks and non-perishable snack items for our canteens” for responders and affected residents, according to a Facebook post on the group’s page. Those wanting to make donations can visit the Salvation Army at 2211 Park Avenue in Lynchburg or call (434) 845-5939.
The Red Cross opened up a shelter at Thomas Road Baptist Church Sunday night. Anyone offering volunteer services and anyone in need of help can visit , where the church is taking stock of offers and coordinating help.
Monelison Middle School in Amherst County is also offering shelter to those who need it through the Red Cross. Anyone needing assistance or further information should call (434) 845-1234.
The Timberlake Family Pharmacy opened its doors at around 8:30 a.m. Monday to accept donations of snacks, drinks, coffee and warm meals for distribution to responders and clean-up crews along the road. Owner Jodi Ettare said anyone wanting to help should keep track of the pharmacy’s Facebook page for needs that can come and go by the hour.
Lynchburg City Schools students can receive lunches at noon Tuesday at Dunbar Middle School, the Jubilee Center or Gospel Community Church. Volunteers willing to help with preparing and distributing meals or cleanup can meet at Heritage High School at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.
Anyone interested in helping can call Ashley Bullock at (757) 714-7456 or Savannah Layne at (434) 942-4161.