BRATTLEBORO — Nearly a year after Tropical Storm Irene's floodwaters wreaked unimaginable havoc across Windham County, hundreds of families and businesses affected by the storm are back on their feet, yet recovery is not over for many of them. They're repairing damage to their homes; cleaning debris from their properties; and discovering new problems like mold, cracked foundations, and contaminated wells. Some still have not returned to their homes, and others are experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
On Tuesday, Aug. 28, at 6:30 p.m., the Brattleboro Area Interfaith Clergy Association and Southeastern Vermont Long Term Recovery Committee (SEVT LTRC), along with town officials, will take part in a candlelight vigil on the Brattleboro Common to remember the storm, give thanks for help received and progress made, and seek strength for continued recovery. All are invited to participate.
At 7 p.m., at the request of Gov. Peter Shumlin, churches, schools, and Town Halls around Windham County and throughout the Vermont will ring bells for 30 seconds in a show of unity and “Vermont Strong” spirit.
In the weeks and months following the storm 1,500 Windham County households were listed by FEMA as damaged. One year later, there are about 250 open cases. The Southeastern Vermont Long Term Recovery Committee (SEVT LTRC), one of nine disaster recovery committees across the state, serves to identify, assess, and help those with unmet needs; recruit volunteers and coordinate volunteer efforts; and raise and distribute funds for recovery projects. The committee assists anyone in the county who needs help, including those who did not register with FEMA. The long-term goal is to leave a framework for future disaster response.
Ways to help
There are several ways people can help this ongoing effort. For more information or to donate or volunteer, visit unitedwaywindham.org or contact info@unitedwaywindham.org.
Donate money: Donations may be sent to United Way of Windham County (UWWC), the fiscal agent for SEVT LTRC funds that directly assist households with needs.
Donate time: UWWC manages a volunteer register and records names, skills, and availability. Especially needed are people with trades experience who are willing to offer a day or more. But anyone can help, young, older, skilled and unskilled.
Donate building materials: Wood, nails, insulation, and other clean materials are needed for building projects.
Donate tools: The United Church of Christ National Disaster Ministries donated a tool trailer to assist with recovery efforts. Now new or used tools in good condition are needed to fill the trailer. Drop-off sites are Guilford Community Church UCC, First Congregational Church UCC in West Brattleboro, and Centre Church UCC and Trinity Lutheran Church, both in Brattleboro.
For a list of tools needed, go to vtcucc.org and click on News.