Disaster Helps During Local Apartment Fire
A severe thunderstorm with microbursts occurred in the Chicago Metropolitan area on May 31, 2016 destroying apartment buildings in Willowbrook and Forest Park. Driving through a significant storm, volunteers Jan and Nick Patela rushed to the nearest canteen to respond to the Willowbrook location, where 32 families were displaced. Brian Styka also responded with additional supplies once the magnitude of damage was known. The following numbers reflect the activity of our duty officers, drivers and crew who never think twice about dropping everything to respond to disasters, and to whom this newsletter is dedicated.
A MARC (Multi-Agency Resource Center) is a one stop shop of agencies available in one location, assist with victims needs following disaster. A MARC was organized to assist families displaced. 25 volunteers worked 196 hours providing 118 meals, 1163 beverages, and 1576 snacks. Emotional and spiritual team members, Mary Minton and Terie Schunck met with, and ministered to families in crisis. There were 96 contacts for emotional/spiritual care support. 29 comfort kits consisting of toothpaste, toothbrushes, and soap, and 125 packages of diapers for 53 displaced families were provided. An additional 19 individuals were assisted at the Forest Park location.