Residents say aid has been vital in storm-stricken areas

HENRYVILLE, Ind. (WISH) - WISH-TV presented checks Thursday to the Red Cross and the Salvation Army - two of the groups that have provided much-needed help in southern Indiana after tornadoes struck March 2.

The money was raised during a fund drive the weekend after the storms. The two organizations will split the $280,000 raised.

Residents say the help the organizations have provided has been vital as southern Indiana residents begin the long process of recovery after the destructive storms.

Donations have been used to provide food, water and shelter.

"It's just been tremendous, the spontaneity of it - people coming not just with dollars but also with their hands," said Father Steve Schaftlein from St. Francis Church in Henryville.

Now, aid agencies say their focus is changing. The need for emergency assistance is diminishing.

Now storm victims have longer term needs, such as mental health counseling.

Both groups expect to be in the area for months, if not a year or more.