Operation Blessing has started its response to the recent winter storm that left millions without power-- sending heaters, fuel and other items to shivering residents across the country.

Officials estimated, Friday, that 1.3 million homes and businesses were without power from Missouri to Ohio. At least 42 deaths have been blamed on the storm.

OB contacts in Sumner County, Tenn., described the area as a "winter wonderland of ice" and said conditions were worse than they thought.

Click play for video of storm damage in Kentucky.

Thousands in Missouri, Kentucky, Ohio, Arkansas, West Virginia and others have now been forced to stay in shelters, after getting word that power may not return to their homes until mid-February.

"We're asking people to pack a suitcase and head south and find a motel if they have the means, because we can't service everybody in our shelter," said Kentucky's Crittenden County Judge-Executive Fred Brown.

Many of his town's 9,000 residents are sleeping in the local elementary school.

OB: Help is on the Way

Operation Blessing has purchased more than $10,000 worth of kerosene heaters and fuel cans to begin distributing to residents Saturday. In Missouri, city-wide "warming stations" with tea, soup, diapers, wipes and tissue have already been set up.

Day of Ministry has also partnered with the Christian charity to provide nearly 40,000 pounds of disaster relief, including food, water and supplies.

OB's "Hunger Strike Force" has also offered to help in Missouri with transportation needs.

Crews responded within 24 hours of requests from officials to provide aid to their states.

Want to help those affected by the harsh winter storm that just hit the U.S.? Donate to Operation Blessing.