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How to help flood victims in eastern Kentucky

Flood waters at a home in eastern Kentucky.
Screenshot
/
Team Kentucky press conference.
Flood waters at a home in eastern Kentucky.

Right now, residents in areas of eastern Kentucky are living through one of the “worst, most devastating flooding events in Kentucky’s history,” according to Gov. Andy Beshear.

The full extent of the devastation will take weeks to catalog, but emergency officials expect extensive property damage and loss of life. As of Friday afternoon, 16 people are confirmed dead and thousands are still without power, water, gas and other services.

Appalshop, a nonprofit media organization in Whitesburg and Ohio Valley Resource partner,has compiled a list of resources for people directly impacted by the storms who are seeking shelter, supplies or help finding loved ones.

At this point in the crisis, state officials are urging people who do not live in the area and are not emergency personnel to stay away. Officials say search and rescue teams may need volunteers and to reach out to them directly.

Here is a map of where you can find shelters, donation drop off points, pet care and other resources in the region:

Be aware that there are still many blocked or flooded roads and washed out bridges in the region.

Those looking for someone who is missing in Breathitt, Knott, Letcher or Perry counties are encouraged to call Kentucky State Police Post 13 at 606-435-6069 instead of 911.

At this point in the recovery process, state officials recommend donating water and cleaning supplies and avoid donating clothing.

Several organizations are asking for clothing and items for infants such as baby food and diapers. If you donate food, ensure it is non-perishable or canned.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced the creation of the state-managedTeam Kentucky Flood Relief Fund for people to make monetary donations in the wake of the storms. The initiative issimilar to a fund set up after massive tornadoes tore through western Kentucky late last year.

The National Weather Service canceled the flash flood watch for the region on Friday morning, but rain is expected to continue through the weekend.

Here’s ways to donate money:

Team Kentucky Flood Relief Fund via Gov. Andy Beshear

Appalachian Crisis Aid Fund via Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky

eKY Mutual Aid

American Red Cross (You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.)

East Kentucky Dream Center

Christian Appalachian Project

Kentucky Sports Radio and the Kentucky Chamber fundraiser

Save the Children Emergency Fund

Various GoFundMe pages. **Please check they are verified and use your best judgment when donating to individual fundraisers.

Justin Hicks
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