Tropical Storm Imelda Relief Update

TROPICAL STORM IMELDA RELIEF UPDATE SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

OUR MISSION

Current Situation

All Hands and Hearts effectively and efficiently addresses the immediate and long-term needs of communities impacted by nAll Hands and Hearts effectively and efficiently addresses the immediate and long-term needs of communities impacted by natural disasters. We communicate directly with local leaders and community members and then deploy our unique model of engaging volunteers to enable direct impact, helping to build safer, more resilient schools, homes and infrastructure.

Tropical Storm Imelda caused devastating flooding across Southeast Texas, dropping near-record amounts of rainfall in areas still recovering from Hurricane Harvey. Preliminary numbers, courtesy of the National Weather Service, indicate that it was the fifth wettest tropical cyclone in U.S. history — excluding Hawaii and Alaska. The precipitation high was a staggering 43.15 inches, resulting in a state of emergency in more than a dozen counties. Highest rainfall totals were in Jefferson, Chambers, and Orange Counties.

After initial assessments, our Disaster Assessment Response Team (DART) has determined immense need in all three of the above counties. Officials estimate several thousand homes are affected.

Program Announcement Our Response Team has determined the initial scope of work will include: debris removal, mucking/gutting of homes, and mold sanitation. Our team currently has boots on the ground and are completing response work in the town of Vidor (Orange County); this location is strategically placed within an hour of both Jefferson County and Chambers County.

As the storm brought about very little media attention, there has been little support in the affected communities. We have launched a response program and at this time, have an urgent need for volunteers.

Learn about us at:

allhandsandhearts.org

Debris Removal Water damage requires the removal of damaged personal items, appliances, fixtures, and other items that are not structural components of the home. It is truly painful for families to literally throw away their life’s possessions. Our volunteers provide critical help to homeowners, working side by side with them, to patiently and thoughtfully sort through their possessions.

Mucking and Gutting Flooding requires the removal of mud, muck, silt, and other materials from a home as a result of water inundation. Gutting then follows to remove drywall, insulation, flooring and other damaged interior materials.

Mold Sanitation Hot, humid conditions allow mold to grow on internal surfaces. It’s critical, to avoid long-term health issues, to sanitize homes using chemicals and equipment such as: moisture meters, dehumidifiers, fans, and air scrubbers to suppress mold and mildew growth.

Special Thank You Thank you to Turning Point Church of Vidor for providing lodging, food, and for welcoming us into your family. This program and the long term recovery of this community wouldn't be possible without your generous support!

All Hands and Hearts arrives early and stays until the job is done. The time to get involved is now!

We have earned a 4-star rating by Charity Navigator six years in a row and a Perfect 100. Less than one percent of rated nonprofits have received this distinction for financial and operational efficiency.

info@allhandsandhearts.org (508) 758-8211