Governor Blunt Praises Charitable Groups and Volunteer Support for Missouri Families Affected by Flood

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

June 19, 2008

Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290


JEFFERSON CITY  Gov. Matt Blunt today commended the numerous volunteers, the American Red Cross, AmeriCorps, Salvation Army and others for their selfless acts in support of Missouri families impacted by flooding.

"Just as important as the states response to disasters is the response of our citizens and volunteers on the ground. As with other disasters, the flooding on the Mississippi River has brought out the best in Missouri," Gov. Blunt said. "While visiting with those in the impacted areas, I have heard countless stories of neighbors helping neighbors, people checking on seniors, and I want to honor these acts of kindness and everyday heroism that I see everywhere I go when disaster strikes our state."

The American Red Cross is assisting local communities with preparations for setting up shelters and feeding operations. They currently have six shelters open in support of Missouri families who had to be evacuated from their homes because of rising water. The Salvation Army is also assisting with feeding operations in impacted counties.

The Humane Society of Missouri has temporary animal shelters set up in Lewis County and at the Pike County Fairgrounds.

Americorps has 50 persons supporting the states flood response, of which 46 are in the field helping to coordinate volunteer sandbaggers.

Missourians who need resource referrals or non-emergency help are urged to call 211. The 211 Service is now available for most areas of Missouri and helps citizens with disaster information and referrals. 211 has information on volunteers available so anyone who needs volunteers can contact 211 at 211missouri@stl.unitedway.org or 800-427-4626.

Donations and volunteers have been requested by counties in northeastern Missouri along the Mississippi River to meet the flood surge expected in the coming days. To donate or volunteer, agencies are asking that those interested go to the Missouri SEMA website at http://sema.dps.mo.gov/semapage.htm and click on the Donate to Missouri Disaster Relief. There one can donate goods or cash by submitting the form which will immediately be received by the volunteer agencies. Once received, the agencies will contact the donor and arrange the transportation of the donation to the appropriate location.