WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins made the following statement after traveling to Cherokee, Crawford and Wilson counties on Monday, May 11, 2009, to survey damage from storms on Friday, May 8, 2009.

“The storms that hit communities throughout Southeast Kansas last weekend left severe damage in the area. New Albany was hit especially hard as the storms completely destroyed the New Albany Methodist Church, the local post office, and also claimed a life. The powerful wind and rain left many folks without power, along with large amounts of debris and damaged schools, homes, businesses and utilities. My thoughts and prayers go out to the folks in the affected areas as they begin to pick-up and rebuild after these storms. 

“After surveying the damage on Monday, my office has been in contact with Governor Parkinson’s staff to offer our full support, including potential federal resources that may be available. We will continue to provide the necessary assistance to the Governor’s office to ensure Kansans have access to any appropriate federal resources.”