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Core-Mark donated reefers to save perishable food donations. ALAN started mobilizing members of the logistics community to help provide relief to tornado victims. (ALAN via Core-Mark)

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The American Logistics Aid Network started mobilizing members of the logistics community Dec. 14 to help provide relief to tornado victims.

The central and southern regions of the country were devastated by a series of tornadoes that started Dec. 10. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had confirmed 61 separate tornadoes by Dec. 18.

“The last few days have been filled with tragic reports from areas affected by at least 30 tornadoes, including a long track tornado that crossed four states. We mourn alongside those who’ve lost friends, family, and co-workers to these events,” Kathy Fulton, executive director of ALAN, said Dec. 14. “In response, ALAN has activated to support these communities via our network of nonprofit partners.”

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ALAN has been coordinating and communicating with nonprofit groups that provided first response and relief efforts. The group also hosts a disaster website that features a list of open requests for post-tornado assistance. Members of the logistics community can use the information if they are hoping to deliver supplies to those in need.

Fulton provided some advice as well. “We have already begun hearing about collection drives and ‘trucks driving around with no place to deliver their donations.’ Although the intention behind these efforts is good, they often create more challenges than they solve, including getting in the way of rescue efforts,” she said. “So please don’t add to an already difficult situation. If you truly wish to help, send funds. Cash donations allow nonprofits to buy what they need, when and where they need it.”

Clarience Technologies also launched a fundraising initiative to support emergency response efforts responding to the tornadoes called Hope Shines Bright. The Southfield, Mich.-based lighting technology, vehicle safety systems and telematics systems company also pledged $50,000 through corporate and employee-matched donations

“With every news report, the world learned of another devastated community experiencing its darkest hour,” Clarience Technologies CEO Brian Kupchella said at the time. “Many of our companies operate in towns across the country that are similar to those communities affected. I couldn’t stop thinking ‘this could have been us’ and knew we needed to help.”

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