San Diegans with roots in tornado-ravaged Tuscaloosa, Ala., organized a fundraiser for victims that will be held this evening in the Gaslamp Quarter.
The South was hit with a swarm of tornadoes on April 27, including a massive twister that heavily damaged Tuscaloosa, the home of the University of Alabama's main campus. More than 300 people were killed across five states, including 229 in Alabama.
The fundraiser will be at 6 p.m. at Quality Social, 789 Sixth Ave.
"Although I've lost my southern accent, I haven't lost the love for my hometown of Tuscaloosa," said Paul Agustin, one of the organizers of the event. "So many people are doing things to help back home. I want to be able to help out from the West Coast by giving funds that will directly support my city."
Proceeds will go to the non-profit Tuscaloosa Disaster Relief Fund. Stations will be set up to make donations online.
