Organizations are moving in to help victims of a May 22 tornado that killed at least 125 people in Joplin, a southwest Missouri town that has higher poverty and lower incomes than the rest of the state and the nation, Bloomberg reported.

Yesterday, the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Small Business Administration launched a business recovery center to finance up to $2 million in business loans and $200,000 for residents affected by the storm.

About 8,000 building units, including apartments, were damaged or destroyed by the tornado, according to Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr. The chamber estimated that 300 businesses and nearly 4,000 employees were affected.

In 2009, more than 18 percent of Joplin’s approximately 50,000 residents lived in poverty, compared with 13.5 percent of all Americans. Census data also showed that the city’s median household income increased 16.4 percent in 2009 from 2000, compared with a statewide rise of 21.3 percent to $46,005.

The American Red Cross and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are on site, and FEMA administrator W. Craig Fugate said he doesn’t expect a fast exit for his organization. “This will not be a ‘we’re in and out in 60 days,’” Fugate said on May 25.

Today, West Des Moines-based Kum & Go LC unveiled a disaster relief campaign aimed at supporting the American Red Cross’ efforts assist those affected by the tornado. Thorough June 5, Kum & Go will accept $1 donations at more than 400 convenience stores in 11 states.

“During my visit to Joplin, I saw first-hand the dedication of our store associates who are diligently working to ensure our customers have everything that they need during this difficult time,” said Kum & Go President and CEO Kyle Krause, in a release. “I believe Joplin will emerge even stronger from this tragedy due to the resilience of its residents.”

Citing an estimate by Eqecat Inc., Bloomberg said insurers’ losses may reach $3 billion.