The damage from Monday’s tornadoes is significant. Homes and property in Southwest Mississippi were damaged and destroyed  — thankfully, no one was killed in the storm.

Lincoln County Emergency Management Director Clifford Galey said there was widespread damage “south of Bogue Chitto Road, west of I-55 all the way to all the county lines. We’ve got all kinds of damage.”

It could have been much worse. But that sentiment does little to comfort those who lost homes. It is impossible to grasp the sense of loss one feels when a home is destroyed.

Homes are places of refuge, places where memories are made, places where families grow. Those in Lincoln and Lawrence counties, and across the state, who have lost homes will need the help of their communities in the coming days and weeks.

Simple things like tarps, clothes, casseroles and pound cakes go a long way in times like these.

We have no doubt the families impacted by Monday’s storms will have plenty of help as they work to replace what was lost. The people of Southwest Mississippi are generous, always eager to pitch in when called upon.

But if you know of someone affected by the storms who is in need, let us know. We will do our best to make sure all of Lincoln County is aware, so they get the opportunity to lend a helping hand.

As for the need statewide, there will be countless opportunities to donate to organizations helping victims. If you choose to donate, do your homework first. Make sure you know how the organization will use the money donated.