Senator Tom Harkin conveyed his sympathies to victims, families and friends of those affected by last night’s tornado that swept through the Little Sioux Scout Ranch near Turin, Iowa. News reports indicate that four boys – including 14-year old Aaron Eilerts from Eagle Grove, Iowa – died in the disaster and many more are injured.

“The news coming out of Iowa last night was shocking and it is heartbreaking to hear that we lost four young boys. My thoughts and prayers today are with the families who are grieving for their children,” said Harkin. “The news reports showed that the boy scouts lived up to their pledge and were prepared when disaster struck their camp. That coupled with the swift work of local officials helped to lessen the impact of last night’s tornado, and for that I am grateful.”

“I saw firsthand the strength of our communities as they banded together to endure the devastation in eastern Iowa, and I am certain that the communities in the western part of our state will do the same. I intend to make sure that the federal government plays a robust role in helping Iowans to recover and rebuild.”

Iowans affected by recent tornadoes and floods are urged to call the 24-hour Iowa Concern Hotline for financial and emotional assistance at (800) 447-1985.

People who want to donate monetarily to help the victims of the storms can do so through the Red Cross, United Way, Salvation Army and other service organizations.