Milwaukee County leaders head to the south to aid in tornado relief efforts

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A tornado last week in parts of the south and Midwest has left at least 32 people dead.

The tornado has prompted help from leaders in Milwaukee County.

"We have become known as the national disaster team for Milwaukee," said Sequanna Taylor, vice chair of Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.

Taylor, along with a team of Milwaukee County activists, are looking to collect essential items for communities hit the hardest by recent weather disasters.

"In times of national disasters and things like this, we know even some of the simplest things make their day better," said Taylor.

Taylor will drive across the country to Memphis, Little Rock and Mississippi. Taylor will hand deliver the items to the weather victims.

"A lot of them have lost everything," said Taylor.

Taylor went on to say items needed most are things like toothpaste, toothbrushes, body wash, soap, canned goods, bleach and perishables.

Here is a physical location for people to drop off items:

• Embassy Center, 3725 N Sherman Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53216

Taylor said while clothes are helpful, they are too heavy to carry. Smaller items like socks are preferred.

City leaders will leave for their journey April 21.