London’s tornado recovery distribution center reopened Sept. 10 at a new location, continuing efforts to support those impacted by the May 16 storm.
The new center, located at 147 Triplett Drive next to the Kentucky Fire Commission, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Laurel County Judge-Executive David Westerfield had first announced the move during the August Chamber of Commerce luncheon, after officials were required to vacate the prior site by Aug. 16 due to cost.
“If the foot traffic increases, then we’re going to be open two days a week — possibly Wednesday and Saturday,” Westerfield said. “We still have lots and lots of supplies for these tornado victims and we would encourage them to come and take advantage.”
Available items include toiletries, canned foods, personal hygiene kits, over-the-counter medication, clothing, water, baby supplies, and more. Food donations are especially welcomed after earlier stocks quickly ran out.
“That was the first thing that went was the food,” Westerfield said.
Donations are preferred to be non-perishable, though certain perishable items, such as watermelons, have been accepted in the past.
The center plans to remain open until its supply is fully distributed. Once donations run out and no further contributions come in, operations will close.
“We’re going to try to stay open until everything has been given out,” Westerfield said. “These people have lost everything and we need to support them in any way we can. We want to help them to rebuild their lives and get back on track, and be there for them any way we can.”