The Lowndes County chapter of United Way is asking for volunteers to help clean up remaining debris from last month’s storm damage.
The April 28 tornadoes damaged approximately 90 homes in Lowndes County, according to Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. Thirteen homeowners need chainsaws and workers to carry debris, while another 10 homeowners need debris taken to the road. Another homeowner has large logs from a fallen tree that need to be moved with a tractor, Patricia Brock with United Way said.
Once the debris is taken to the road, city and county crews will haul the loads away.
The majority of homes that still have remaining debris belong to the elderly, Brock said.
“We have mostly elderly and disabled people on the list, and they have no other way to get this work done,” she said. “Volunteer efforts are critical to overcoming the hardship placed on many from this storm.”
In addition to seeking volunteers, United Way is also asking for donations of food, cleaning supplies and basic hygiene items. A Toy Drive for children affected by the storm ends Friday. Donations can be dropped off at Columbus banks, Brock said.
A Community Based Recovery Committee will hold its first meeting at 9 a.m. on May 28. The group will meet at Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen at 223 22nd St. N.
Those who are interested in volunteering in debris cleanup can contact the United Way at 662-328-0943 or email [email protected].
Sarah Fowler covered crime, education and community related events for The Dispatch.
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