For weeks after the flooding, American Red Cross volunteers provided shelter, clean-up supplies and food to hundreds of residents affected by the severe flooding. Thanks to their efforts, our neighbors had a place to go, someone to talk to about any concerns and a meal and fresh water as people cleaned their homes or moved to a new residence. To find out more about their efforts and how you can assist with this disaster and future disasters, read the full story of our flooding relief efforts.

Even after efforts ended and everyone had a place to go, some residents were unable to clean their basements and groups of volunteers still wanted to help. Efforts by these dedicated volunteers continue, though there are new procedures for how residents ask for help and how groups can help with clean-up.

How to get your group involved in clean up efforts
The group Nechama is scheduled August 25 through September 10 to do clean-up. They are taking in other community volunteers under their umbrella and doing training and offering personal protection equipment. Interested volunteers should contact Chad Ostlund of Nechama at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Volunteer groups should contact Chad even if the dates that they can help do not fall within those dates to see if there is any flexibility with their schedule.

What to do if you need help
Elderly and disabled individuals needing help with basement clean-up should call 211 to report their need. They should no longer call 286-CITY. 211 will continue to take names until August 27. Calling 211 does not, however, guarantee that help will be available to do the clean-up.