MADISON — For most of us the floods have come and gone, but there are thousands of our brothers and sisters still coping with its effects.
Wisconsin Voluntary Agencies Active in Disasters (WiVOAD) is made up of over 25 voluntary agencies contributing to the work of returning people to stability. Catholic Charities Disaster Relief is part of this group of agencies still working to help the victims.
FEMA’s financial help has been nearly completely distributed. There are many people who did not qualify either for FEMA grants or loans. Those who are left are often the neediest.
In order to bring needed help to the remaining victims, each county has organized a Long Term Recovery Committee and each of these committees is seeking volunteers to speak to victims and evaluate what they need.
WiVOAD provides training and involved supervisors to assist volunteers in their work. Volunteers are given a cell phone allowance and mileage expenses for their assistance. All volunteers go through the WiVOAD and may serve in any of the 30 flood stricken counties.
The Diocese of Madison, through Catholic Charities, has been a part of the recovery effort. Not only have parishes contributed funds for the recovery, but volunteers have also helped staff Community Resource Centers and Mobile Food Pantries in flood-affected areas.
Monique Hicks, Catholic Charities Disaster Relief Coordinator, is active in the WiVOAD and is looking for those interested in volunteering time to reach out to flood victims.
Those interested in volunteering should contact Hicks by November 14. Training will be held November 19 and 20. Hicks can be reached at 608-516-5341 or [email protected]