UPDATED THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2026 11:00 AM EST

Matthew 25: Ministries is responding to the destructive EF-3 tornado and severe weather that impacted portions of eastern Wisconsin on Monday, July 27.

A powerful storm system moved through eastern Wisconsin on Monday, July 27, producing a confirmed tornado that caused extensive damage across portions of Outagamie and Winnebago counties, including Appleton, Menasha and Fox Crossing. Preliminary storm surveys conducted by the National Weather Service identified at least EF-3 damage in Menasha, indicating estimated winds at 140 mph. Additional surveys are continuing to determine the tornado’s complete path and final rating.

The storm damaged homes and businesses, overturned vehicles and brought down trees, utility poles and power lines. Multiple buildings collapsed, gas leaks were reported and debris and blocked roads created hazardous conditions for residents, emergency responders and utility crews. Several emergency shelters were opened in Menasha to assist those affected.

In partnership with Procter & Gamble, Matthew 25: Ministries deployed its Disaster Response Team to provide critically needed supplies throughout impacted communities this morning. Supplies to be distributed include personal care items, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, paper products, first aid and safety kits, batteries, and other necessities to help meet the immediate needs of individuals and families as recovery begins.

“Our hearts are with the individuals and families in Appleton, Menasha and communities across Wisconsin whose homes and lives have been disrupted by this destructive storm,” said CEO Tim Mettey. “In the days following a disaster, access to essential supplies can provide an important sense of comfort and stability. Together with our trusted partners, we are committed to helping those impacted begin moving forward.”

WAYS TO HELP

• Donate online or mail checks to Matthew 25: Ministries, 11060 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, OH 45242 (100% of donated funds designated for the 2026 Wisconsin Tornado will be used for the purpose intended).

• Cases of bottled water: 12 and 24 count
• Personal care products: Antibacterial soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, body wash, deodorant, lotion, etc.
• Cleaning supplies: Laundry detergents, general cleaner, sponges, bleach (powdered form is preferred), mops, scrub brushes, buckets, rubber gloves, etc.
• Paper products: Toilet paper, paper towels, etc.
• Baby and infant supplies: Diapers, wipes, diaper rash ointment, baby wash, baby shampoo, baby lotion, etc.
• First-aid items: Bandages, gauze, pads, first aid tape, antiseptic creams, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, latex gloves, instant cold packs, etc.
• Candles and flashlights: If necessary, please include the appropriate size batteries with any flashlight donation
• Clean-up supplies: Protective eyewear, work gloves, trash bags etc.

Additional Donation Drop-Off Locations:

Volunteering:

• Volunteers are essential to the work of Matthew 25: Ministries. If you are interested in volunteering at our facility in Blue Ash, OH please visit our volunteering page for more information on how to get involved.

Donors who would like to designate their financial gifts for the 2026 Wisconsin Tornado may do so by writing “2026 Wisconsin Tornado” in the memo line of their check or by typing it in the “Additional Information” field of the online giving form. Please mail checks to Matthew 25: Ministries, 11060 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, OH 45242. 100% of donated funds designated for the 2026 Wisconsin Tornado will be used for the purpose intended.