Organization Encourages Residents to Donate to Local Disaster Relief Fund
DUBOIS – Since major flooding affected areas throughout Clearfield and Jefferson counties at the end of June, the American Red Cross in Western Pennsylvania has been on-the-ground, providing assistance to affected residents. The organization is encouraging the community to consider donating to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, to help those affected by area disasters, such as the recent flooding.
The organization will continue to operate its service delivery site from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Wednesday at the chapter office in DuBois, 109 N. Brady St. After Wednesday, individuals affected by the flood who wish to speak with Red Cross representatives will then be encouraged to visit the chapter site during its regular normal business hours, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The site gives affected families the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Red Cross volunteers who will assess their needs and help them move toward recovery.
Disaster workers continue to perform damage assessment as the Red Cross becomes aware of affected areas and will reach out to community members in those areas to assess their needs.
How to Receive Help
Those affected by the flooding can request assistance from the Red Cross by stopping at the chapter office or by calling 814-371-2750.
Red Cross Response to Date:
To date, the organization has:
- Opened cases for 195 families affected by flooding. Caseworkers have been meeting with affected families one-on-one.
- Served 1,000 meals and snacks, in partnership with the Salvation Army
- Distributed 525 cleanup kits and 56 comfort kits
- Mobilized three emergency response vehicles and more than 100 Red Cross disaster workers to assist in damage assessment, casework and mobile distribution.
- Provided nearly 200 overnight stays with Red Cross operated and supported shelters
Other Assistance Available to Affected Families:
Food for Affected Families
Tri County Church will be providing gift cards for Martin’s Foods. These will be distributed by the
Salvation Army to affected families in immediate need for food assistance. Families who wish to inquire about these cards should contact the Salvation Army at 814-371-5320.
Clothing Assistance
The Salvation Army will be accepting clothing donations and available to provide clothing donations as well. Anyone with questions regarding clothing donations should contact 814-371-5320.
Cleanup Assistance
DuBois First United Methodist Church, with Western Pennsylvania United Methodist Church Disaster Response Ministry, is providing bulk distribution of cleanup supplies and coordination of physical labor for those families who need cleanup assistance. Families in need of this assistance should call 814-371-5150.
Emotional Support
Community Connections of Clearfield and Jefferson counties will be available for anyone in need of support for mental or development disabilities. Individuals in need of this assistance can contact the agency at 814-371-5100 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Catholic Charities Counseling and Adoption Services will be available for those who have been affected by flooding and need emotional support. They can also assist with the supply of items including clothing, diapers, formula, baby food and other limited financial support. Families in need of this assistance should call 814-371-4717.
Flood Recovery Tips
- Parts of your home may be collapsed or damaged. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs and overhangs have all their supports.
- Before entering your home, look outside for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.
- If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
- If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
- Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.
Additional flood safety tips can be found on RedCross.org.
How to Help
You can help people affected by disasters like floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief.
Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.
Visit RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.