Not all storm victims aware of relief help

Not all storm victims aware of relief help

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Story Published: Dec 8, 2007 at 6:54 PM PDT

Story Updated: Dec 8, 2007 at 6:54 PM PDT

By KOMO Staff

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BELFAIR, Wash. -- Saturday's clear skies helped dry out the washed-out roads that prevented many flood victims from getting help. Now the focus is on getting the word out to flood victims that help is available.

The Ballard Community Center in Belfair is located off of Highway 3 in Belfair's main drag, but the center has only seen about two dozen flood victims who have come to pick up supplies.

The low turnout is not because the center's low on supplies, but because many storm victims still don't know there's help available.

Ron Gearhardt lives in a trailer off dirt roads deep in Mason County where the flood waters rose quickly.

"I got out what I could get out and got the hell out," he said.

Gearhardt watched helplessly as the flood waters washed away his shed. Inside were his reserve food, supplies and Christmas presents for the grandkids.

"I had christmas presents for my daughter and sister-in-law, where i'm staying now. It's just, it is heart wrenching," he said.

Gearhardt didn't know until Friday that there was a distribution center in Belfair, where he could get help, necessities and even Christmas presents.

Anne Whitman, manager of Theler Community Center, believes there are many other storm victims still in the dark.

"I think the people probably the most affected are the furthest out, they are having a harder time getting to us and probably an even harder time knowing there is help here," she said.

Further south in Shelton, volunteers are sorting through donated items.

"We cleaned out closets and brought a whole bunch of stuff up, and it is just great. Makes life simpler for us and helps people out," said Kathy Bolander.

Relief workers say the community's generosity has been tremendous. They say supplies are ready and now it is time to get them to the hands that need them.

Volunteers plan to begin distributing the goods on Monday.

"The kids, kids need toys and puzzles and items to keep them occupied," said volunteer Mike Ruttter.

"Build it and they will come, right?" Bolander said.

To find a flood relief distribution center near you, contact your local branch of the Red Cross or the Salvation Army.

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