Washington County to host flood recovery resource event
The Washington County Department of Public Safety has partnered with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to bring a wealth of flood recovery resources together in a two-day event.
Hundreds of county residents have reported losses since four flash floods roiled the area throughout August and September, with many still seeking damage estimates and insurance payouts.
The Multi-Agency Response Center (MARC) will be open from 11 a.m. through 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday at American Legion Post #175 at 168 Park Ave. near Washington.
Members of the public and local business owners are encouraged to attend to learn about critical resources and aid programs, according to a news release from the department.
“The MARC provides a central location for individuals and businesses to learn about resources which will include help with understanding insurance coverage, information on avoiding fraud and repair scams and connections to local community support services,” according to the release.
This includes the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and several relevant state and county agency staff members.
Local officials have encouraged anyone who experienced damage during the flooding events to report it to relevant authorities via the county’s website.
More information on the reporting process can be found online at washingtoncopa.gov/news/wc-dps-floodreports2.
The county must hit a certain threshold of total reported damage in order to unlock relief funds from PEMA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), making each individual report critically important. The MARC will allow residents to connect with county emergency management staff and PEMA representatives to help navigate this process.
“This is an opportunity to bring critical resources directly to the front door of those in need,” Washington County Director of Public Safety Gerald Coleman said in a statement. “We encourage anyone who has experienced loss or damage from these recent storms to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with those who can help as we, as a county, navigate the recovery process.”