Relief Effort Continues in Iowa

World Hope International (WHI) continues its work in Iowa cleaning the Waterloo community in the aftermath of the major flooding that devastated much of the Midwest late this spring. Dozens of volunteers have come to Iowa to help local residents reclaim their homes and begin the long process of restoring the community.

Although the work is difficult and the task is still large, individuals and congregations have made a big difference in the effort. Donated materials have been as essential as donated labor. Last week Mitchell (SD) Wesleyan brought to Waterloo 150 complete flood buckets, 70 empty buckets, 4,440 protective masks, 36 boxes of Latex gloves, and 12 packs of non-chlorine disinfectant. A gas powered pressure washer was also donated from an individual in the local church. The local food bank has been contributing to the WHI teams, which has helped keep food costs low. Also this week, Cedar Valley Community Church partnered with WHI and the North East Iowa Food bank to distribute food boxes to the flood victims.

Volunteers are still needed to contribute to the effort. In addition to the relief site in Waterloo, a new relief site will soon open in Cedar Rapids. Relief and cleanup work will continue at least through the first three weeks of August

Volunteer opportunities in Iowa are still available to teams of five members or more. Sign up by contacting James Bond at disasterresponse@worldhope.net or by calling 785-556-0852.