Extension mobilizes after tornadoes

On January 12, 2023, at least four tornadoes touched down in Spalding County, Georgia, including an EF3 tornado that tore through the center of downtown Griffin. More than 2,200 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed across the county. University of Georgia Spalding County Extension staff established a call center that organized relief efforts, connecting residents with relief organizations, directing donated goods and services to areas of need across the county and coordinating and training volunteer call center personnel.

Extension staff operated a Tornado Relief Hotline that logged more than 1,500 calls over an 8-week period. The most common requests were for tree/debris removal; delivery of food, supplies and medicine; and shelter and transportation assistance. Extension staff led teams of volunteers through neighborhood streets clearing limbs and debris, delivering meals and supplies and unclogging storm drains to avoid flooding.

Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&C) funds.