While still in the planning stages, officials with the city of Picayune are kicking off a relief drive in an effort to gather supplies for one area affected by the major tornado that struck several states on Sunday. Donations are currently being collected.

Building off the needs felt after Hurricane Katrina, and knowing that smaller towns typically get less aid when a disaster strikes, Public Safety Commissioner Fred McDonald III said leaders in the city of Picayune met earlier this week to discuss what this area can do to help those affected by the major tornado that struck Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois and surrounding areas.

Currently those personnel are searching for a smaller town that has needs that are not being met, and will then work to identify what those needs are.

McDonald did say that certain items are always needed after a disaster, such as baby items that include diapers, baby food and wipes. Other items that are always in need include non perishable food, manual can openers, baby formula, pacifiers, kids toys, garbage bags, ziplock bags, sharpies, duct tape, toothpaste and toothbrushes. McDonald suggested residents think back to Hurricane Katrina or some other disaster situation they may have personally experienced to determine what was most needed when considering donations.

Donations can be brought to the Picayune Police Department located at 328 S. Main Street or the Picayune Fire Department’s central station, located at 435 S. Loftin Ave., until Dec. 27 before noon.

McDonald said that he has been in conversations with representatives in areas that have needs as a result of the storm, but a final decision on which area to help is still in the works.

When the city officials decide on one specific area to help, the recipient of this large scale relief drive will receive these donations from the Picayune and Pearl River County community. .

More information concerning the town or city that Picayune will provide assistance to will be released at a later date.