How to Help Tornado Victims

In the wake of strong storms that rolled over Northern Illinois on Monday, relief organizations were asking for monetary donations that can be used to help those affected.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter in Sublette, one of the areas hardest hit, to provide food and shelter. The shelter is located at the Ellice Dinges Center at 202 South West.

Spokeswoman Patricia Kemp said the organization has many of the items it currently needs -- water, food and cots -- but money can help improve the aid they provide.

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Officials and relief organizations contacted by NBC Chicago said walk-up volunteers to disaster sites is not appropriate while damage is still being assessed. Those interested in volunteering should check online for opportunities.

"I have seen the best part of humanity in these volunteers, who roll out of bed in the middle of the night, and we go to open a shelter in a town that they may not have been to before, or a town that they might live in, and they do it without any desire for reward. They do it no matter what because those families need it," said the Red Cross' Harley Jones.

A "Coal City Area Tornado" community page was created on Facebook for residents to share news and information about resources. 

Photos: Storms, Tornadoes Hit Northern Illinois

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