Tornado Resources

Dear AARP Arkansas Volunteers,

We are thinking of you as you recover and move forward from this weekend’s severe weather. The tornadoes wreaked havoc on portions of our state, predominantly in Central Arkansas. Another round of severe weather is predicted on Tuesday, April 4. We want to share some information and resources to assist you during this time.

First, we must emphasize that your safety is paramount. We never want volunteers or participants to be in harm's way to attend an AARP event. That said, we do plan to go forward with our Wednesday, April 5, Red Shirt Day at the State Capitol. Please give yourself plenty of time to get to the State Office if you plan to ride the bus. As a reminder, parking will be extremely limited in and around the state capitol grounds.

Below, we are providing links to social services, emergency responders, and other critical agencies. If you were unaffected and looking for an opportunity to donate, non-perishable goods, water, toiletries, and baby items can be delivered to 7000 Murray St., Little Rock, AR 72209. Within the city of Little Rock, yard waste and bulk item collection is suspended this week, but garbage collection will occur where possible.

Third, we’ll send periodic text messages to check in and make sure that you’re safe and secure.

Important Resources

If you need emergency assistance, please call 9-1-1

Arkansas 2-1-1 for Health, Human and Volunteer Services Arkansas 211 is an information and referral service provided by the United Way of Arkansas. This service connects people with critical care on the local level.

Find an Open Shelter The Red Cross has a shelter located at Calvary Baptist Church, 5700 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR 72207. Those sheltering are encouraged to bring several days of clothing, toiletries, medications, bedding, and comfort items for children such as a stuffed animal. The City of Little Rock shares that they are partnering with several organizations such as the Family Assistance Center at 315 N. Shackleford Rd., Little Rock. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is a one-stop shop for answering questions such as how to get trees removed, tarps, FEMA assistance, and mental health services.  

Additional Resources iDrive Arkansas https://www.idrivearkansas.com/ for road closures.

Your safety is important to us. Contact us if you need assistance.

Ashley McBride State Director, AARP Arkansas