Houston Red Cross volunteers head to Oklahoma

How you can help victims of the catastrophic tornado

HOUSTON – On Tuesday, American Red Cross workers loaded up and got ready to head to Oklahoma to help people in the storm ravaged state.

A catastrophic tornado at least a half-mile wide ripped through the Oklahoma City suburbs on Monday, flattening entire neighborhoods and destroying an elementary school as children and teachers huddled against winds up to 200 mph.  At least 51 people were killed, including at least 20 children, and officials said the death toll is expected to rise.

In light of such massive devastation, Red Cross recognized the desperate need for help.

"We'll go up there and provide mobile meals if needed, shelter if needed," said Cameron Ballantyne, with the Houston branch of the American Red Cross.  "We want to make sure there is a roof over their heads and food in their stomachs."

The Red Cross said donations are needed from anyone who can help.  The best way they said to donate:  send $10 to the disaster relief fund by texting Red Cross to 90999.