Tornado Travels 24 Miles in Cherokee

While officials are assessing the damage of the tornado that traveled through five of the six Cherokee cities, Cherokee CARES, a volunteer network of local organizations and individuals, is teaming up with the county to accept donations to help the families that were affected by Monday's disaster.

"Cherokee CARES is for people who have no help whether it be family members or no insurance," said Susan Urode, a program volunteer from the Sheriff's Office.

Volunteers from the program are taking lists of volunteers and contributions whether it be monetary or donated items, and matching them with families in need. 

"As soon as we get everything assessed, we are going to call all of our volunteers and assign cases depending on what they can offer and what they can do," Urode said.

There isn't a drop-off point for items at this time because a full assessment of what is needed hasn't been done yet. More information is expected to be available Wednesday.

Anyone who doesn't have help or insurance is encouraged to call Cherokee CARES at 678-493-4059. Volunteers will be available to take calls Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and messages can be left after hours until midnight Thursday. Interested volunteers can also call this number.

is also providing cleanup help from tree removals to yard cleanups. Residents in need can call 770-924-4777.