CRWRC Disaster Response Services sent this message to churches within a day’s drive of South Dakota.
In the last few days we have been made aware of a very urgent need in central South Dakota. The towns of Eagle Butte and Dupree, on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation, experienced both tornados and flooding earlier this year. Recovery efforts have not moved as quickly as anticipated, and the area is now looking at winter right around the corner.
The goal is that some travel trailers are set in place, and that some home exterior repairs are completed, prior to November 12! The need is for volunteers with plumbing, electrical, and carpentry skills who can hook up travel trailers and build steps and skirting. There also is a need for people who can do roofing and siding on small traditional homes. A limited number of general handy laborers can also be used.
Travel expenses will be paid by FEMA, and we anticipate that housing and meals will be provided, although we do not have details to give to you at this moment.
This is on a fast track! CRWRC needs to know ASAP–they asked by 10/27–if anyone could be available to start working in SD next Monday, and to stay until November 12. The project is developing daily, and other organizations are appealing for volunteers as well, so volunteers who say they are available may not actually be asked to go.
To indicate interest or request more information, contact Art Opperwall at aopperwall (at) crwrc (dot) org or by phone at 616-224-0843.