Metro Atlanta Flood Relief: October 1, 2009

October 1, 2009
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Many of us in the Atlanta region have been affected by the flooding and rain storms that occurred last week. We’ve heard the stories and seen the photos of flooded homes, fallen trees, washed away roads and more. Many of our residents don’t have the necessary flood insurance to help them rebuild their lives, and it has been reported that our state government is also unable to help due to our cash-strapped budget.

Early last week Governor Perdue asked the president for an emergency declaration to assist the 17 counties hit hardest by the flooding, and so far the following counties in The Community Foundation’s service area will receive federal aid: Carroll, Cobb, Cherokee, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton, Paulding and Rockdale counties. Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine estimates the storms caused $250 million in damage.

The Community Foundation has been listening to and speaking with our community partners and local residents about ways we can provide support to those most affected by the flooding. Below is an initial list of nonprofit and faith-based organizations throughout the region that are providing essential assistance during these difficult times.

If you have questions about ways you can provide support for Atlanta’s flood victims, please contact us at 404-688-5525. Donors of the Foundation can contact their philanthropic advisor for assistance with making a contribution through their fund.

>American Red Cross, Metropolitan Atlanta chapter404-876-3302
To date, the Red Cross has sheltered 458 people, served 6,105 meals, and distributed 1,156 clean-up and comfort kits. Volunteers are also providing emotional support and help with emergency medical needs. As flood waters recede, Red Cross Emergency Vehicles are roaming through flood-ravaged neighborhoods to provide mobile feeding.

Atlanta Community Food Bank
404-892-FEED
The Atlanta Community Food Bank is currently accepting nonperishable food items for their partner agencies hit hardest by the floods. The organization is coordinating food and water distribution to local emergency assistance orgs in Cobb, Douglas, Cherokee and Paulding.

Atlanta Community Tool Bank
404-880-0054
The Atlanta Community ToolBank is extending free tool usage to groups participating in flood related clean-up efforts. Nonprofits, neighborhood associations, schools, faith-based organizations and other eligible charitable groups can borrow equipment for up to two weeks. The ToolBank inventory includes over 150 tool types with everything from trash grabbers to large ladders ready for action.

Center for Family Resources
770-428-2601
The Center for Family Resources is serving as a clearinghouse for recovery efforts for Cobb County flood victims. Multiple agencies met on Thursday, September 24 at the Mansour Center to coordinate efforts and provide efficient and effective delivery of services through collaboration.

Christian Aid Mission Partnership (CAMP)
770-819-0662
CAMP is located in Austell, Ga., one of the hardest hit areas by the recent flooding. Many areas of Austell are still inaccessible and water damage is extensive. CAMP has been designated as a central location for flood assistance and is currently providing resources including financial assistance, temporary housing assistance, food, clothing, diapers, hygiene items, school supplies and water.

Cobb Schools Foundation
770-426-3390
Clarkdale Elementary School in Cobb County was inundated with floodwaters Monday afternoon after students were safely evacuated. The Cobb Schools Foundation is accepting financial donations for the Clarkdale Elementary School Relief Fund to help schools and students who lost supplies, textbooks and equipment.

County Line Baptist Church, Lithia Springs
770-942-0190
The County Line Baptist Church in Douglas County is coordinating both clothing and food distribution and is also hosting “From the Overflow” – a relief project for the victims of the flood.

First Baptist Church of Dallas
770-445-8897
The First Baptist Church of Dallas, Georgia in Paulding County is working on a water distribution project for residents who need clean drinking water and is looking for donations to help cover expenses.

Helping Hands of Paulding
770-443-1230
Helping Hands of Paulding is working to provide needed meals to flood victims in Paulding. In addition, the organization is encouraging individuals to make flood relief buckets to help with clean-up.

MUST Ministries
770-427-9862
With almost 1,700 people in need of supplies following the flooding in Cobb County, MUST Ministries is spearheading an emergency drive to collect food and new or like-new clothing.

The Salvation Army Metro Atlanta
1-800-SAL-Army
The Salvation Army is distributing comfort and cleanup kits to Georgia flood victims. Additionally, the organization will continue providing hot meals and beverages from its Disaster Canteens in affected areas.

United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta
211
United Way has created a Disaster Relief Fund to help Atlanta’s flood victims. The organization is working with a disaster network of more than 560 partners to support the community’s first-responders providing assistance and coordination as needed.

In addition, many of the animal shelters and organizations in the affected counties are likely needing special assistance. We do not have information on this yet, but we will post it on our website as we learn more.



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