How You Can Help the Tornado Victims in the South

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AP / Butch Dill

The aftermath after a tornado hit Pratt City, Ala. just north of downtown Birmingham, Ala. on Wednesday, April 27, 2011.

As residents begin the daunting task of cleanup after the storm destruction, here are some ways you can help from wherever you are.

More than 340 people have died as a result of violent storms and devastating tornadoes, and thousands of others have lost everything. Charities have offered an outpouring of support across the South. Here’s how you can offer your help, as well.

United Way of West Alabama – DONATE

The boots on the ground in the devastated Tuscaloosa area, the United Way is accepting donations of all types that they will then distribute to the immediate victims. You can donate non-perishable food, clothes, tarps, and of course, cash, — 100% of which, they say, will stay in the West Alabama area. Donate online or over the phone by calling 205-345-6640.

The American Red Cross – DONATE

The Red Cross remains a leader in disaster relief, having opened more than 40 emergency shelters across the hardest-hit states. They’ve served more than 250,000 meals to those impacted by the twisters and distributed 22,000 items like clean-up supplies across the area. You can follow their progress on their blog and donate through their website or via text message by sending “REDCROSS” to 90999 to give $10.

Feeding America – DONATE

This hunger-relief charity has stepped up their mission to bring food and water into the affected towns. They work with local food banks to coordinate donations and distribute food. You can donate through Feeding America’s website to bring ready-to-eat meals and clean water to people devastated by the storms.

Salvation Army – DONATE

Another steadfast relief leader, the Salvation Army has committed at least 10 mobile food trucks to the Alabama, Lousiana and Mississippi with another 22 that are on standby. You can keep up with the charity’s progress on their blog and submit a donation online or by texting “GIVE” to 80888 to donate $10.

Convoy of Hope – DONATE

This outreach organization has donated more than 3,000 hours of service since last week, helping victims with cleanup and feeding them. They set up two distribution sites in western Alabama to give out food, water and supplies to those in need. They are accepting online donations to help further their mission in Alabama.

Serve Alabama – DONATE

This hyper-local initiative promotes community service and volunteerism throughout the state of Alabama and has served as a portal for information for those affected by the storms and tornadoes. Through their website they are taking donations of goods and money that will be put toward the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund.

(More on TIME.com: See shocking video of the twisters tearing through the South)

(More on TIME.com: See photos from the disaster area)

(More on TIME.com: See why devastating storms keep developing over the South)