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Photo courtesy of Chattanooga Times Free Press
Dear Blue Ridge Country Friends & Family,
As you may know, severe storms dumped more than a foot of rain over the Georgia-Tennessee border this past Wednesday night—and the record-setting deluge triggered a once-in-a-century flood event. The Toccoa River, for instance, rose more than 15 feet in just a few hours and crashed through the streets of beloved downtowns like McCaysville.
Brave first-responders risked their lives amid a terrifying scene. Fire station reports say rescue missions saved at least 68 people in Tennessee’s Polk County alone.
A favorable weather forecast predicting dry conditions that will last well into next week is good news. But our friends and neighbors around the region are hurting and in desperate need of help.
“Families are displaced, businesses have suffered devastating losses, city government buildings sustained severe damage, and the McCaysville Police Department has lost virtually everything after catastrophic flooding,” town officials said in a statement.
Whether its old-fashioned elbow grease, supplies, foodstuffs, or a financial donation, if you’re inclined to pitch in, here are the best ways to do so right now.
HOW TO DONATE SUPPLIES
Flood relief donations can be dropped off at 289 Blue Ridge Drive in McCaysville, the former Theater Time Video location next to the current Papa’s Pizza To Go. Donation hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The donation notice lists these needed items:
- Water, sports drinks, and powdered hydration packs. Powdered sports drink packets are also accepted.
- Baby wipes, children’s and adult diapers, and baby formula
- Nonperishable food, plastic utensils, and manual can openers.
- Trash bags (either 13-gallon or contractor size).
- Cleaning supplies, plastic sheeting, and tarps.
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, toiletries, and sanitation items.
- Hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, and feminine hygiene products.
- Bug spray and sunscreen.
- Dog and cat food.
- Heavy-duty work gloves.
- New, unopened socks in all sizes.
VOLUNTEERS AND COORDINATION
Anyone wishing to volunteer should report to the incident command center behind City Hall at 223 Blue Ridge Drive. Volunteers must check-in and be verified before starting work.
FINANCIAL DONATIONS
Fannin County said financial contributions will be accepted at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Office, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Suite A, in Blue Ridge.
Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, call 706-632-5680.
PLEASE NOTE: Donors must clearly specify whether their contribution is intended for public safety or members of the public affected by the flooding.
