|
|
Update: 1/22/2010
On Monday January 18, 2010, just after midnight, local firefighters and emergency responders were quick to react to a fire that broke out in the Elsessers Apartments, 132 S. Main St.
On the heels of the emergency responders were volunteers from the American Red Cross of the Susquehanna Valley. The Red Cross provided temporary housing and limited food and clothing vouchers. Initially 13 cases were opened, serving 17 people. As people are discharged from the hospital this number may change. Once people were safe and secure the Coalition of H.O.P.E.S (Help Offering People Essential Services) jumped in.
The role of the Coalition of H.O.P.E.S. is to expedite the transition of disaster victims from temporary shelter to permanent housing. H.O.P.E.S. staff are working to find housing, provide clothing and household start up items. Currently program funds for rental assistance and security deposits are depleted so cash donations will be put toward this use. Victims have been able to access the Shelter Services Thrift Shop (248-0102) for clothes and linens. Donations to the Thrift Shop will renew this inventory. Eventually furniture and household cleaning supplies and paper products will be needed. If you are willing to donate any of these items contact the Coalition of H.O.P.E.S at 248-2552. You will be asked to store the items until they are needed.
At the time of this report, all victims that have come forward have been provided needed services. United Way dollars support the local Red Cross, Shelter Services and the Coalition of H.O.P.E.S. Consider the concept of giving to an organization that is in touch with the needs of the community and can respond appropriately. Donations can be made to the United Way of Mifflin-Juniata, 13 East Third Street, Lewistown, PA, 17044. Phone: (717) 248-9636. or online at http://www.mjunitedway.org/
Search our website
|
|
|
|
|
