As the disaster count increased with this weekend's tornados, it further stretched resources for organizations meant to help people in need.
Local Red Cross representatives say this tornado outbreak should cost them $350,000 in relief efforts.
But, despite their ever growing tab, they say the Red Cross will continue to pay the bill.

Like for Neosho resident Don Reed, whose house was destroyed by this weekend's tornados.

"They're giving us gas vouchers, food vouchers whatever they can, whatever we need,” says Reed.

Reed is just one of more than 250 people asking for help from the Red Cross after a tornado ripped through southwest Missouri.
The organization admits, by itself it can't afford to help everyone.

"We're fortunate to be a part of that larger organization because they're standing behind us,” says Greg Jones, Director of Financial Development for the Greater Ozarks Chapter of the Red Cross.

Actually, that organization does more than stand behind local chapters. The American Red Cross foots the entire bill which is repaid later.

"They ask us to go to our community and raise funds so its there next time,” says Debi Meeds, Executive Director for the local Red Cross.

Organizations like local churches also help the Red Cross afford emergency response by donating their space.

"The locations are almost always donated and the cots we own and the staff are volunteers,” says Jones.

All of that allows the Red Cross to use every penny it has to help those who really need it.

"This will help me get situated so I can help get back on my feet,” says Reed.

In terms of raising money and gaining volunteers locally, Red Cross officials say the randomness of disasters helps.
With different communities affected each time, different donors step up to help out.