This past Friday, May 16th, our city experienced one of its most devastating natural disasters in recent memory. A powerful tornado ripped through parts of St. Louis City and surrounding areas, taking the lives of at least five people, destroying homes, businesses, and landmarks, and leaving thousands of families reeling in the aftermath.
According to KSDK News, the damage has been extensive — with entire neighborhoods left in shambles. As Fox 2 Now reports, emergency responders and volunteers are working tirelessly, but the need for support is far from over.
As a dad, a neighbor, and a St. Louisan, it breaks my heart to see families displaced, kids without homes, and communities torn apart. But we are not helpless. In times like these, we can come together to support those who need it most.
How You Can Help
If you’re in a position to help, here are a few ways you can make a difference today:
🎯 Donate to Local Relief Efforts
One of the easiest and most direct ways to help is by contributing to relief funds. A GoFundMe has been set up by Danni Eickenhorst from The Fountain on Delmar and Steve’s Hot Dogs to support teams working directly in the aftermath of the Delmar tornado. Your donation goes toward helping families rebuild, providing essentials, and supporting emergency crews.
👉 Click here to donate to the GoFundMe
🧤 Volunteer Locally
Organizations across the area are seeking volunteers for cleanup and aid distribution. Check with groups like the Red Cross, STL Foodbank, or local churches and shelters to see how you can lend a hand.
🎁 Donate Supplies
Families impacted by the tornado are in desperate need of:
- Non-perishable food
- Bottled water
- Hygiene products (toothpaste, diapers, soap, deodorant, feminine products)
- Clothing (especially for children)
- Flashlights and batteries
- First-aid kits
- Blankets, tarps, and sleeping bags
- Cleaning supplies and garbage bags
Drop-off points are being set up throughout the region. Stay tuned to local news stations or neighborhood groups on social media for updates.
Building a Tornado Emergency Kit
As we reflect on this disaster, it’s a reminder that being prepared can save lives. If you haven’t yet, consider building a family tornado emergency kit. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Weather radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person, per day for 3 days)
- Non-perishable food for at least 3 days
- Cell phone chargers (especially portable battery packs)
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- First aid supplies
- Copies of important documents
- Cash
- Sturdy shoes and protective gloves
- Child-specific supplies (formula, diapers, toys)
Store your kit in a safe place — ideally a basement or designated storm shelter — and review your emergency plan with your kids regularly.
We’re St. Louis Strong
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by tragedy. But here in St. Louis, we’ve always shown up for one another. I’ve seen it firsthand — neighbors bringing over meals, strangers helping clear debris, families opening their homes.
Let’s keep that momentum going. Whether it’s a small donation or simply checking in on someone who might need help, it all makes a difference.
If you or your family have been affected by the storm, please don’t hesitate to reach out. StLouisDad.com is more than a blog — it’s a community.
Stay safe. Stay strong. We’ll get through this — together.
— Richie (St. Louis Dad)
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