Westmoreland Co. Fire Department To Aid In Joaquin Cleanup
WESTMORELAND COUNTY (KDKA) – A small, volunteer fire company in Westmoreland County is taking on a big task.
They're helping collect items for the flood victims in South Carolina.
The Midway St. Clair fire department in Hempfield has been working feverishly to collect items for areas of South Carolina hurt by Hurricane Joaquin.
"We're taking any items that we can take to them that would be useful in a shelter," said Barb Ohler.
Flooding has affected 17 counties, caused 19 deaths and cleanup costs could top $1 billion.
Not only did families lose their homes, but they are in need of clothes, water food and toiletries.
And many continue to be isolated by closed roads and bridges.
Barb Ohler grew up in South Carolina, but now lives in Hempfield. Although she still has family there.
This effort is very personal to her.
"I lived there for 20 years," she said. "There are a lot of lakes, rivers there and once it rains, those bodies of water just can't hold and it just lets go and has nowhere to go – and now all the dams are collapsing."
Ohler has been in touch with the sheriff's department near Patterson, South Carolina.
She and some fellow firefighters and paramedics plan to leave later in the week to deliver all the donated goods.
"We plan on pulling out and personally driving the items to South Carolina Friday," Ohler said.
They are also taking a fire truck to help in the cleanup.
The Midway St. Clair Fire Department will be accepting donations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day leading up to Friday.
One man who was driving by the firehouse Monday was moved to stop and make a donation.
"I feel really bad for them and I want to help them any way I can," said George Wilkinson. "My best friend lives down that way and I want to help them. I want to do my part."
Among the most needed items are ready-to-eat food such as cereal bars, fruit and bottled water. Personal hygiene items like shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes – preferably in travel-size containers are needed, as well as baby formula, wipes and diapers.
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