After violent tornadoes ripped through northern Alabama counties in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa Wednesday, reportedly killing more than 50 people, President Barack Obama called the loss of life “heartbreaking.”

With 32 fatalities, 600 injured and more than 146,000 residents without power in Tuscaloosa alone according to reports, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox said the town is experiencing a “dark hour.”

First Baptist Church (Lauderdale Street) members Kelly Patton and Tracy Stevens, who have personal ties to Tuscaloosa, want to do all they can for residents affected by the devastation.

“We have several friends and family in the area that are in need,” Patton said. “We just want to help in any way that we can.”

Patton and Stevens are asking the public in Selma to donate bottled water, blankets and clothing for the next three days. Beginning Monday, the women will pack their SUVS and head to Tuscaloosa.

“We’ll come back and forth and will take donations at least up until mid-May,” Patton said. “We want to do this until people can get back on their feet.”

For more information call 875-7590.

Those who want to help, Dallas County Emergency Management Agency Director Rhonda Abbott said, are encouraged to use the proper avenues like the one organized by Patton and Stevens.

In a statement she said she understands that people have heavy hearts, but there are better ways to supply relief to those who need it.

“Everyone’s heart is breaking to see such destruction and many people want to immediately reach out and try to offer services and goods,” she said. “However, these communities need to have an opportunity to assess their needs.”

Volunteer reception centers and Coordinators are currently being established in effected counties.

For assistance and information regarding donating goods residents should call 2-1-1. Residents are asked not to spontaneously travel to affected areas to offer services without registering through 2-1-1 or 874-2515.

Monetary donations are also being taken through the Red Cross, Salvation Army and United Way.