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I spoke with Larisa who is currently in DC, earlier today. She is very concerned as per her story, about what could be thousands of people in Broward and Palm Beach Counties - especially seniors- needing food, water, medical supplies and other support who have no access to resources or to even call for help. I promised Larisa that I'd follow up on DU and do my best to get some support for those in need in these areas.
The Salvation Army in Broward County confirmed Larisa's story and said that things are really very bad up there. Water and Food are limited and although they are feeding as many as they can, they do not have the staff, equipment or resources to take care of the thousands needing help. Plus, with the communications down, there's no way to know how many are stuck alone at home with no way to call for assistance.
They are the only major group on the ground now by the way. All of the other agencies are either not there yet or are so understaffed that they are not visible. People are getting desperate.
Here's what is needed now:
1) Money! Please send checks to: Salvation Army PO Box 230, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33302. Put on the check "For Wilma Assistance" so that the money goes directly to those in need.
2) FOOD (pre-packaged cans, shelf-stable (canned fish, meats, pre-packaged meals that can be eaten cold or heated with sternos, crackers, cookies, boxed juices, milk, canned vegetables, Velveeta Cheese- anything that does not need to be prepared and does not need refrigeration.)
3 WATER and ICE-- As much as possible.
For those of you that are in Florida and have gas and can get to Broward County, please bring these to their main office:
1445 W Broward Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-524-6995. Erin is the volunteer coordinator.
They also need volunteers to help distribute things and unload and sort boxes.
If anyone can get a group together to start canvassing the Senior Citizen's homes and communities, that would be great. Or if anyone lives near any of these places, please try to stop in there and see how people are doing and if they are needing any immediate support. There is great concern that with no power (for elevators, cooking, lights, etc.)and no phone service (or cell service), many could be desperate for outside contact and to reach their families. It's a huge job as there are so many of these places but this would be a great thing to do if anyone lives near there.
I was not able to reach the Palm Beach County Salvation Army (phones are down) but I'm sure they need help too.
We are trying to organize a caravan from Miami to head up there on Saturday. So if anyone wants to join us, please PM me.
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