On March 14-15, 2025, a powerful storm system wreaked havoc across the Midwest, leaving a trail of destruction. Fierce winds and multiple tornadoes affected more than twenty-one counties across Missouri and Southern Illinois, and the devastation claimed at least fifteen lives. Thousands were left without power, and homes, schools, and businesses were severely damaged. The National Weather Service confirmed twelve tornado touchdowns across the region, making it one of the most intense storms in recent memory.
In the face of this disaster, the United Way of Greater St. Louis 211 response system quickly activated and offered essential support to the communities affected.
Supporting Survivors and Communities
On March 14, 211 was officially activated by Franklin County and St. Louis County Emergency Managers, with subsequent outreach from Missouri’s state emergency team. The response was immediate, and the system was fully prepared to assist in the hours following the storm.
Within 24 hours, United Way 211 launched an online disaster intake form to manage the incoming wave of calls from neighbors needing help. 211 navigators were ready and equipped with the necessary tools and resources to connect people to the assistance needed. Daily briefings of the latest developments kept 211 navigators up-to-date with information and support.
As emergency management teams and media outlets pushed out 211’s contact information, navigators were ready to respond. “We recognize that the recent storms have created immense challenges for some of our local neighbors and United Way 211 is here to connect people with resources and support that will help with recovery efforts,” said Regina Greer, Chief Impact Officer of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Those needing assistance can complete a disaster intake form by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211helps.org where that information will be shared with local Emergency Management Agencies and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to assess your needs and deploy support.”
A Network of Volunteers and Community Support
In addition to coordinating disaster calls, United Way’s Volunteer Center was also activated. This allowed local communities to come together in the wake of the storm, with spontaneous volunteers offering assistance where it was needed most. Requests from local jurisdictions flooded in, and United Way quickly mobilized a network of volunteers to help with cleanup, distribution of supplies, and other urgent needs.
“The United Way of Greater St. Louis Volunteer Center is committed to working with our agency partners and Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to meet the needs of our neighbors in the aftermath of last week’s storm,” said Rick Skinner, Vice President of the United Way of Greater St. Louis Volunteer Center. “We encourage agency partners needing spontaneous, unaffiliated volunteers for anything related to storm recovery efforts to post those needs on our Volunteer Center’s website at STLVolunteer.org. Working together with our community, we will do our best to ensure that all of our local neighbors feel supported during this difficult time.”
Through storms, floods, and any challenge the community faces, United Way 211 remains a beacon of hope, delivering support and resources when it’s needed most.
Visit 211helps.org for storm relief resources and to learn how to help those impacted.
