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Houghton County is making tremendous progress in the cleanup effort following the recent storm that caused mass devastation throughout the area.
While the community has received overwhelming support from across the country, officials are asking donors to check and see what is needed before sending more.
“The needs are starting to get shorter, but we still have needs and we’ll try to get that out to the public as best as we can,” said Lt. Nick Roberts of the Houghton Police Department.
While road crews have spent the past week backfilling sinkholes, repaving and reopening roadways, the Disaster Logistics Team continues to meet and distribute efforts in an efficient manor. This effort collaborates area donation centers and the use of manpower. At Monday’s meeting, officials put together a list of items that are still needed and items that are not needed.
“The list is still being formed as we speak. What we don’t need is clothing any longer or bottled water. We have a lot of that. Food items are coming in, so we don’t need any food items. Again, what we need is dehumidifiers, box fans, garden hoses, and we could use some pallets of Gatorade still, duct tape, and this type of items,” Roberts said.
Donations of these items can be delivered to two area hockey stadiums that will remain in operation through the end of the week.
Roberts said, “The Dee Stadium hours will still be from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm to take in donations and also come in if you need items. We have a lot of stuff down there.”
Donations that are made after 4:00pm can be delivered to the Calumet Colosseum. They are open daily until 8:00 pm. Hours and locations for next week will be announced within the next couple of days, as both venues will be allocated for normal business soon.
“It’s not that we’re going away, but the donation sites and the hours may be changing after this week.”
In the meantime, residents whose homes were affected by the flash floods are reminded that help is here, and you’re encouraged to come in with a driver’s license and pick up any of these items. Current inventory includes a plethora of items ranging from tools and cleaning supplies, to food items and toiletries, to name a few.
For those sending large donation loads, you’re asked contact the city first.
“Please have them call the City Center first, the City of Houghton (906) 482-1700. Just let us know ahead of time if you’re bringing a semi truck full,” said Roberts.
So far, more than 90% of flooded basements have been cleaned of mud and muck and volunteer efforts will be directed back to those homes for demolition of damaged material in the upcoming days. This will prep the sites for rewiring and fresh drywall.
