Emergency Management Officials Coordinate Response Efforts For Residents Affected by the Floods

Posted on February 27, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI

As the flood waters start receding, emergency management officials are beginning to plan out ways to assist those most severely impacted by the recent floods.

The Salvation Army recently delivered a few clean-up kits to emergency management officials in both Starke and Pulaski County. Starke County EMA Director J. Nier and Pulaski County EMA Director Sheri Gaillard said they will be handing those out to the citizens who need them in the near future.

They also said they’ll be conducting more thorough damage assessments once the water recedes more. However, residents are still reminded to fill out damage assessment reports through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to assist with relief efforts. Director Gaillard said none have been received so far from Pulaski County residents.

EMA Director Gaillard added that since she initially didn’t receive any requests for an emergency shelter, one was not established in Pulaski County. However, when a couple calls came in about a few individuals being displaced, she said she directed them to the Red Cross shelters in Knox and Plymouth.

The Plymouth site has since been closed but Red Cross Volunteers report that the emergency shelter at Knox Middle School remains open. They said there will be a notice given at least 24-hours prior to shutting down. All cots and supplies have been moved to one gymnasium in order to allow other school functions to resume.

Lead Disaster Action Team Member Sherry Fagner was in Red Cross Headquarters in South Bend yesterday, working with the Mass Care Feeding League. She said that Emergency Response Vehicles will be out in multiple counties, including Starke and Pulaski, handing out food and additional clean-up kits later this week.

She added that if individuals feel there are certain things that are currently being overlooked, contact the Red Cross and they will coordinate with local officials in order to see that those needs are met. The number to call is 1 888 684 1441.

Additionally, individuals can always call their local Emergency Management Agency for more information about how to receive assistance within the county.

Pulaski County EMA: 574-946-6391

Starke County EMA: 574- 772-9182

Salvation Army Bell Ringing Begins This Weekend

Published: November 18, 2014
By: Mitch Columbe, WKVI

The Salvation Army is gearing up for their annual bell ringing charity fundraiser. Volunteers will start the season off this Friday at Mark Bailey’s Discount Center. They will be there each Friday and Saturday until Dec. 22. They will also be at Five Star on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays starting this Friday and continuing until Dec. 22. Both locations will be open for donations from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Volunteers are also needed for shifts of two hours or more. All the money collected by the Salvation Army will be used to help people in Starke County. If you are interested in helping, call Joe Lopez at 574-772-7499.

Bell Ringers Wanted

The Salvation Army is looking for Bell ringers once again this year to work at Five Star in Knox, and at Baileys Discount Center in North Judson.

The ringing will start November 21st and run in 2 hour shifts on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Bell ringers will be inside!

All the money collected will stay in Starke County. If you are interested in helping out, call 574-772-7499.