An article from FEMA highlights the efforts of nonprofits and other community volunteers as recovery from the Jan. 12 tornado continues. 

The article notes the numerous actions from volunteers to coordinate feeding and sheltering, as well as removing debris, home cleanup, and providing materials such as hygiene products, clothes and others. 

"Community organizations (non-profits and faith-based congregations) are truly at the front lines of disaster preparedness and response," said Kim Proctor Lawkis from Feeding Alabama and Alabama Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

"Every storm response is different based on impact, much like every Alabama community is different. The ways in which state and federal agencies rely on local expertise is countless. Community partners serve as hosts for Volunteer Reception Centers, Disaster Recovery Centers and distribution warehouses. They also help state and federal agencies identify needs, such as translators, aid in communication and services for community members with disabilities."

FEMA mentions Black Belt Community Foundation, which it said has provided funds for temporary housing and has trained volunteers. Churches were also mention, particularly Church Street United Methodist Church in Selma. 

Read the full story here. 

(0) comments

Welcome to the discussion.

Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.