SITUATION: Flooding from torrential rains has done extensive damage to homes, roads, and businesses in a six-county region of Eastern Kentucky. The major damage is centered in Floyd and Pike Counties. Emergency response agencies are actively involved in providing food, shelter, and clothing to those whose hoes were either destroyed or severely damaged. They are being impeded in their efforts by not being able to access roads into affected areas due to washouts or mudslides.
Preliminary damage estimates are set at over 250 homes. At least 20 of these were totally destroyed. One person was killed and one, and possibly more, are missing. It is uncertain at this point if federal assistance will be available. Officials are presently touring the damaged areas and will make that decision, hopefully by the latter part of this week. Centers for long-term assistance are being opened in Prestonsburg and Pikeville.
KIDRP'S RESPONSE: KIDRP'S response will depend on the information we receive from the agencies who are doing flood damage assessment. I am in contact with the American Red Cross and the Kentucky Emergency Management division and they will pass along updates to me, as they become available. It seems very likely that KIDRP will again play a major role in recovery. In the meantime, I will contact volunteer agencies like the Mennonite Disaster Service to determine what kind of assistance they can give. The Red Cross and Emergency Management are planning to channel funds to KIDRP to defray repair and reconstruction costs. We will also be asking our churches for support when we get a more accurate damage assessment.
It is important to note that emergency needs are being cared for by a variety of organizations that address the immediate response phase of disaster. Independent churches, local civic organizations, and other groups who concentrate on dispensation of vital services are joining the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Church World Service and others, have been in the area and are working tirelessly to meet immediate needs. When floodwaters recede and people return to their homes, many will be greeted with depressing sights and discouraging prospects. This is when the ministry to KIDRP is so vitally needed! We know we can count on your help.
John Kays, coordinator
KIDRP
1-502-426-8566
Contact KIDRP coordinator, John Kays, at 502-426-8566 to find our more about how you can help.