Iowa Disaster Response Coordinator Reports on Flooding Crisis

by

Massive flooding in Western Iowa has impacted over 30 communities and hundreds of acres of cropland. Currently, the water is going down in the northern communities while it is going up in west central Iowa. As the water moves south, more communities will be impacted. Many roads are still closed due to high water and damage to roads and bridges from the water. 

Donations: Many of you have asked what we can collect or give. The best option would be to check the Facebook page or website of the community you wish to support. They should have a list of what is needed and where to bring it. Be aware that many roads are still closed, so getting around is difficult (check Iowa 511 for road closures.) PLEASE DO NOT BRING ITEMS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ASKED FOR! They get in the way and take time and energy to deal with. 

Pray: Please pray for all affected, including the first responders and those displaced.

Financial donations: Locally (through reliable avenues) or through the Iowa Annual Conference Disaster Response Ministries, Special Advance #223, we have already begun issuing Emergency Disaster Grants to communities affected.

Clean-up buckets: Make Clean-up buckets. We have ordered and are delivering clean-up buckets as fast as we can.  

Volunteer: Plan to go VOLUNTEER when volunteers are needed. PLEASE DO NOT GO TODAY! The water is still high, and many communities are not ready for us (we just get in the way.) Check the Facebook page or website for the community you wish to volunteer in to see when you can come and how to sign in and get assigned a job. It is important to sign in, as communities get assistance based (partially) on volunteer hours.  

Reach out: Reach out to those you know dealing with flooding and offer help, friendship, and prayers. Let them know that they are not alone.

Pastor Catie Newman serves as Disaster Response Coordinator for the Iowa Annual Conference. This article is taken from an Iowa Conference newsletter.