PRESS RELEASE

Flood Survivors Still Need Help

June 4, 2008 – Life is still a train wreck for many survivors of the August 2007 floods in southeastern Minnesota. They are in financial shambles and have been left high and dry: most relief agencies have pulled out, the media is long gone and financial aid has dwindled.

Although The Salvation Army has remained on site to help residents of six affected counties, it has exhausted its $1.3 million flood fund and has been forced to use an extra $200,000 to continue service.

The Army is serving in collaboration with Lutheran Disaster Services. Caseworkers from both organizations are helping survivors navigate the confusing world of government assistance, insurance claims and loan options. They are also providing direct financial support for household appliances, building supplies, insurance deductibles and more.

Army caseworker Carrie Lee still has 100-plus cases open, about half of which are households in dire need.

“People think the flood is over, but there is still massive devastation,” Lee said from her Rushford office. “There is something catastrophic to deal with here everyday.”

Example: Lee recently met with a woman, recently divorced, who had bought a home for $110,000 just before the flood. The flood caused about $90,000 in damage to her house.

Although FEMA gave her a forgivable $28,000 for repairs, $60,000 more was needed. The woman’s salary: $35,000 a year.

“She can’t pay a $170,000 mortgage,” said Lee, who began working with the teary-eyed woman to secure a low-interest loan. “If nothing happens, she’ll lose her house.”

The Salvation Army is asking the public to help. To donate, please click the button below or mail a check to 2445 Prior Ave. N., Roseville, MN 55113. Designate your contribution “SE Minnesota.”