Birmingham, AL– Congresswoman Terri Sewell responds to the February 2nd tornado damage in Pickens County and discusses the state's response efforts and the importance of faith-based and community volunteers. The Congresswoman released the following statement:

“Recently the National Weather Service confirmed that two tornadoes hit Pickens County on February 2nd. My heartfelt thoughts are with those Sapps residents whose homes and property were damaged by these tornadoes. Once again, the resolve and will of the people of Alabama is being challenged by a natural disaster.

“The Alabama Emergency Management Agency personnel, along with my office, are working closely with local officials to support the needs of the affected residents. My office has been on the ground since February 3rd accessing the damage with EMA officials and assisting storm survivors at the Sapps Community Center. I want to thank the Red Cross, churches and volunteers that are addressing the needs of the affected residents.

“Given that the early assessment have revealed that the damages did not meet the threshold to receive FEMA assistances, it is imperative that our state efforts address the immediate and long-term needs of this community and the affected residents. Today, Governor Bentley will tour the damages in Pickens County. It is important that all levels of government work together to address this crisis affecting the Sapps community. We will continue to monitor the damage assessment and explore all federal funding possibilities that can assist the community.

My office is committed to the recovery and rebuilding process and we will continue to assist those devastated families in any way we can. I am confident that the resilient spirit of Alabamians will see us through these difficult times and our communities will rebuild and recover stronger and better than before. We will continue to work with local, state, and federal officials to bring assistance to those affected."

###