Churches on the Streets in Wood River, Illinois, are rallying volunteers and seeking donations to aid in their disaster relief efforts following the impact of Hurricane Milton. The community is coming together to assist those in urgent need of relief in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Southern Florida. Manager Jen Valdes emphasized the importance of gathering various items such as non-perishable food, baby supplies, clothing (both new and gently used), water, and any other essentials that can provide support to those affected by the disaster.
Trucks will be departing from Wood River, Illinois, loaded with supplies destined for the hurricane-affected areas. Churches on the Streets are urging more individuals to join their cause and help sustain their relief mission. Co-founder and executive director Angela Valdes highlighted the extensive damage caused by recent hurricanes in Matlacha and Pine Island, stressing the ongoing need for aid in these areas.
Volunteers are crucial to the operation, with opportunities available on Saturdays and beyond to assist in greeting, sorting, and organizing donations at 209 Old St. Louis Rd. Collection efforts will continue throughout the weekend, with specific time slots on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The group has already provided assistance to over 1,200 individuals in North Carolina and is now gearing up for a second trip to Florida. Urgent necessities include baby supplies, non-perishable food items, hygiene products, tarps, and even pet supplies for communities grappling with the aftermath of the hurricanes.
The emotional impact of witnessing the devastation and the desperation of those affected was evident as Jen expressed her heartfelt sentiments. The sight of families, particularly mothers and babies, searching for assistance and hope underscores the significance of the relief efforts being carried out by Churches on the Streets.
Despite their extensive experience in aiding the homeless and disaster victims in various states, Churches on the Streets acknowledge that they cannot tackle this immense task alone. Those interested in contributing can donate online, volunteer their time, or drop off donations by visiting their website or reaching out to them directly. All donations received will be directed towards the hurricane relief initiative, ensuring that those in greatest need receive the necessary support during this challenging time.
