Moore Multi-Agency Resource Center To Transition To Long-Term Recovery

The Multi-Agency Resource Center in Moore will be transitioning to long-term recovery on July 3, according to the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross, along with partner agencies, set up the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARCs) at Westmoore High School, after a killer tornado swept across the Moore area on May 20.

5/27/2013 Related Story: Multi-Agency Response Center Set Up For Tornado Victims

Officials say the transition does not mean assistance from the Red Cross is ending. Caseworkers will be available to meet those still needing assistance.

"The transition of the Multi-Agency Resource Center is a positive as it indicates people are getting the emergency help they need," said Janienne Bella, CEO of the Red Cross of Central and Western Oklahoma. "The Red Cross will be here to help the community recover for years to come."

Complete Coverage: May 2013 Tornado Outbreak

The MARCs in Carney, Little Axe, Shawnee and El Reno have already transitioned over to long-term recovery. Red Cross officials say they will continue to reach out to clients who have not been able to meet with caseworkers. This will be done in different ways including going door-to-door and sending outreach teams.

To date, the Red Cross has assisted over 19,000 clients through casework. This includes a number of things, such as assistance with transportation, minor home repairs, security deposits for new housing, storage of salvaged belongings, connecting people with social service programs, helping them fill out paperwork for assistance or insurance claims, getting them counseling or identifying child care resources.

The Red Cross has received approximately $28.4 million in donations and pledges for its response to the Oklahoma tornadoes, according to officials.

The organization has spent or committed more than $8 million for its emergency response and initial assistance to families in Oklahoma, and estimates that this will grow to $9 million.