Response
to Needs
after April Virginia Tornados
Thank
you for your care, concern and prayers.
The immediate needs
are being handled at this time by local agencies and first responder
agencies. CBF is on stand-by to assist when needed. Plans are
being made through the localities in regard to debris removal.
The SPCA is working with animal control to include "foster
care" while families are displaced. We do not know yet
what the long term need will be but will keep you posted. Volunteer
needs will be made known by VBMB when available.
Partial News Release
from Virginia Department of Emergency Management:
CONTACTS:
Bob Spieldenner, VDEM (804) 674-2400; www.vaemergency.com
For Immediate Release: April 29, 2008
Cash
Donations Reach
Disaster Victims Quickly -- Donors Should Use Recognized Organizations
and Charities--
RICHMOND, Va. -
When disaster hits local communities, many concerned citizens
want to help. Frequently, donations of food and clothing begin
pouring into areas that are not ready to sort and distribute
items. A better way to assist victims of disasters is to make
financial contributions to local charities or faith-based organizations
that are responding to the situation.
"We
know that many Virginians want to reach out to those affected
by yesterday's storms and tornadoes," said Michael Cline,
state coordinator for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
"The fastest way to help is to give money to a recognized
charity or organization."
Cash donations help organizations
avoid the labor and expense of sorting, packing, transporting
and distributing donated goods. Also, voluntary relief agencies
can use cash to meet victims' needs more quickly.
"Helping families and rebuilding
these damaged areas will take some time, and assistance is greatly
welcomed," said Cline. "We encourage those that contribute
to do so wisely and through experienced organizations."
Here are pointers to consider before
donating goods, money or time to help with the storm recovery
effort:
-
Volunteer wisely
to help others. In a community struggling to recover from
a disaster, an influx of unexpected or unneeded volunteers
and donations can make the process even more difficult.
Before traveling to the disaster area, learn if and when
your skills are needed. Discuss with volunteer organizers
how your needs for food, water and shelter will be met while
you are volunteering.
-
Confirm the
need before collecting. Donors should be wary of anyone
who claims that “everything” is needed. Many
groups have been disappointed that their efforts and the
goods they collected were not appreciated. A community hit
by disaster does not have time or resources to dispose of
unneeded donations. Get precise information before collecting
any donated goods.
-
Financial contributions
are preferred. Cash donations can be used to meet victims’
specific needs more quickly. Donations of food, clothing
and other items have to be stored and distributed, costing
charitable organizations valuable time and money that could
be used to help victims directly.
-
Donate goods
through an experienced organization. Some relief agencies
may have the structure in place to store and distribute
donated goods. To prevent waste, donations of goods should
be made only to agencies that have requested specific items.
For more on donating to victims of disasters in Virginia,
go to www.vaemergency.com.
_____
See side left panel for donation information
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