Organization Encourages Residents to Donate to Local Disaster Relief Fund
DUBOIS – Since Thursday’s storms resulted in heavy rain and major flooding in Clearfield and Jefferson counties, the American Red Cross in Western Pennsylvania has been on-the-ground providing assistance to affected residents. The organization has mobilized more than 75 Red Cross staff and volunteers to assist in damage assessment, casework and the distribution of relief supplies, food, water and snacks.
The organization will continue to staff a service delivery site throughout this week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Reynoldsville Fire Department. The center is located at 411 Jackson St. in Reynoldsville. The multi-agency site gives affected families the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Red Cross volunteers who will assess their needs and provide them with the proper resources to get back onto their feet.
“Our organization encourages impacted residents from Jefferson and Clearfield counties to stop by the service delivery site,” said Jason Bange, executive director of the local Red Cross. “We have volunteers and staff ready to work with individuals to get them onto their path of recovery.”
In addition to the service delivery site, the local Red Cross, in partnership with other community agencies, will continue its relief operation with mobile and fixed distribution of relief supplies and food, as well as cleanup assistance and emotional support.
How to Help
After Red Cross damage assessment teams canvassed hard-hit areas in Jefferson and Clearfield counties, the organization identified the need to be on-the-ground for days to come. The local Red Cross asks community members to donate to the local disaster relief fund, helping their neighbors who are in need.
Donations to the local Red Cross will help those affected by the flooding as well as other disasters in the local community. To make a donation, visit RedCross.org/PA/DuBois or mail it in to the local chapter, 109 N. Brady St. in DuBois.
As a nonprofit organization, the Red Cross relies solely on the dedication of volunteers and generosity of local donors to continue its lifesaving work right here in Jefferson and Clearfield counties.
Food for Affected Families
Tri County Church will be providing gift cards for Martin’s Foods, which 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.
Additionally, DuBois Alliance Church, in conjunction with Martin’s Foods, will facilitate a bulk distribution of food to affected families on Tuesday afternoon at the church. The church is also seeking donations of canned goods and other items from the local community. Donations should be made between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., before Tuesday’s distribution event, which will be held at 3 p.m. at the church, 1004 S. Main St. in DuBois.
Clothing Assistance
The Salvation Army began accepting clothing donations Monday and will be available to provide clothing donations. 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.
Red Cross Response to Date:
Red Cross emergency response vehicles will continue to canvas affected communities in Clearfield and Jefferson counties, specifically Sykesville, DuBois, Treasure Lake and Reynoldsville, providing clean-up kits, meals, snacks and water.
To date, the organization has:
- Served 419 meals in partnership with the Salvation Army
- Distributed 273 cleanup kits and 16 comfort kits
- Mobilized three emergency response vehicles and more than 70 Red Cross disaster workers
- Provided more than 200 overnight stays with Red Cross operated and supported shelters
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 Receive Help
For more information, or to request assistance from the Red Cross, residents can stop by the Red Cross Service Center or call 814-371-2750.
