In the early hours of Nov.15, tornadoes ripped through Johnston and Wilson counties, claiming lives and leaving about 70 homes with damage or total destruction. MERCI is in the area organizing relief efforts. Many people have responded and offered help to the grieving victims of the tornadoes. More help will be needed in the future from work teams or individuals who can help the families rebuild or repair the damage. MERCI is operating from Kenly Original Free Will Baptist Church, at 107 Edgerton St. in downtown Kenly. The MERCI representative will assist groups or individuals with work assignments. Items needed now include chain saws, hammers, drills, rakes, crow bars, and blowers. Donations toward the relief efforts may be directed to MERCI, and gifts may be received online at the MERCI website or by check to the NC Conference, designated for MERCI. MERCI will also need persons who are willing to volunteer with case work and support in the volunteer coordination efforts. If you would like to help, please call MERCI at 919-739-9167 or 888-440-9167. MERCI needs volunteers to complete NC Housing Agency funded urgent repairs for very low income households in Wayne County and to prepare two shipping containers of disaster humanitarian aid for Haiti. Please call 888-440-9167 or email ahuffman@nccumc.org to book a work team.