Donations for the flood survivors in the valley have been astronomical! For that my fellow residents are thankful, however as of 9 am on Tuesday September 13, 2011 donations at the Athens Township fire hall are being turned away.
Sharon Gibbons Lowery of the Red Cross reported in the Facebook group Cleanup for Volunteers for Flood Victims 2011 that only cleaning supplies are needed as this time. Storage limits have been reached at this time. She went on to say that most all of these affected residents have no homes so they cannot accept clothes and other household items at this time.
She also added what these people could use most is gift cards for groceries and gas. Lowery suggested going door to door if you see someone working and give them a card. I personally have been out there with my fellow Athenians and trust me the gift card would be appreciated very much so would a helping hand.
I would like to add, take bottled water, gatoraide or maybe a sandwich or snack. If you stop along the street with these items, people cleaning will accept them. Any where you see someone cleaning is fine/ Today clean up is occurring in down town Athens, The East side of Sayre, Milltown along the river and in the Cannon Hole area.
If you go into a flooded area, DO NOT take photos of people working. Instead, get out of your vehicle and offer to help the residents. This maybe the best time you have had, and let me tell you I have been out there and it felt good to know I was making a difference.. Lots of hands are needed to carry out ruined belongings.
Those with cell phones are encouraged to text REDCROSS to 90999 for a 10 dollar donation. Our local Red Cross is in dire need of funds to help those affected.
Curves in Sayre and Cathloic Charities in Waverly are accepting donations at this time in the Valley. Donations can be taken to Nickols, Owego, Wysox, Towanda or any town affected by the Susquehanna Flood at this time. All of these areas were hard hit almost as hard as our Valley.
If you have a lost PET or are taking care of a pet who is lost connect on this Facebook page. Let’s reunite these animals with their owners. Katrina Grier created the group on facebook called Lost and found Pets in the Valley Flood 2001 NY/PA. Also check the shelters. Get the word out on this pet group so we can help.
Those affected by the flood in Pennsylvania go to the Sayre post office for your mail, just bring your ID.