Sheriff's Department, volunteers to share information about tornado relief

The Cole County Sheriff's Department and its "posse" volunteers will go to residents on Heritage Highway and other unincorporated county roads Saturday, June 29, 2019, to see progress being made and to hand out packets containing information as to where to find particular types of help.
The Cole County Sheriff's Department and its "posse" volunteers will go to residents on Heritage Highway and other unincorporated county roads Saturday, June 29, 2019, to see progress being made and to hand out packets containing information as to where to find particular types of help.

The Cole County Sheriff's Department and members of the department's "posse" will conduct surveys Saturday in areas damaged by the May 22 tornado in the unincorporated areas of the county.

"We want to make sure everyone is aware of the resources available to them for recovery," said Sheriff John Wheeler. "Watch for us; we will be in uniform and going door to door."

The Sheriff's Posse is made up of volunteers who donate their time to do civilian work the department cannot afford to hire full-time employees for.

Wheeler said they will check on how residents are doing and if they need further assistance.

"We'll have information packets which include the 211 number (or 1-800-427-4626) that can help them find out what agencies are providing services to people impacted by the tornado or flooding," Wheeler said.

They also want to let residents know the Community Distribution Center is still open at Capital West Christian Church Event Center on Fairgrounds Road in Jefferson City. Food, clothing, personal care items and more are available from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Wheeler said deputies and posse members will be out from 8 a.m.-noon Saturday in some of the most heavily damaged areas, such as Heritage Highway and Beck Road.

"We just want to make sure those who need the help are aware of how to get that help," Wheeler said.