The Minneapolis Jewish Federation is among a number of non-profit or charitable groups accepting donations to assist in relief efforts for victims of the tornado that devastated North Minneapolis on Sunday.

Estimates of the damage caused by the storm are in excess of $160 million and expected to rise. Many residents of the area remain homeless and still others are just regaining the electricity they need to start putting their lives back in order.

The Jewish value of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) extends beyond the Jewish community to all people in need. Federation is uniquely positioned to reach out to the Jewish community and 100 percent of all donations received will be distributed to provide financial support where it is urgently needed, the group says.

Donations will be directed to Minnesota Helps (www.minnesotahelps.org), a fund created for North Minneapolis Tornado Relief.

Donations to the North Minneapolis Tornado Relief Fund can be made online at jewishminneapolis.org

Meanwhile, my colleague Jean Hopfensperger reports in today's Star Tribune that thousands of volunteers -- some organized, some solo -- continue to help haul away fallen tree limbs, serve food and even search for missing pets.