During times of crisis our community is strengthened by our deep desire to give back, roll up our sleeves, and collaborate with each other in ways that supersede the expectations of others. It is now time for us to come together and collectively meet the needs of those affected by the waters that continue to rise.

As one of many agencies represented on the Long Term Recovery Committee, we seek to share information, simplify resident access to services, and jointly resolve cases with unmet disaster-caused recovery needs by including volunteer, financial, spiritual, physical and/or psychological support for people whose lives have been affected by declared disasters regardless of race, creed, color, gender, disability or religious preference.

The purpose of the committee is to coordinate and facilitate more effective disaster response by incorporating the following principles of operation: cooperation, coordination, communication, collaboration, education and convening mechanisms.

“In order to return many of our neighbors that have been affected by the flood back to normalcy, it will take all local agencies working together, doing our part, to ensure we wrap our arms collectively around each person/family,” Michele Connelly, executive director of the United Way of West Central Mississippi, said.

As a strong member of this team, United Way of West Central Mississippi is serving in two capacities:

1. Collecting donations — If you would like to assist in the collection of cleaning supplies, United Way of West Central Mississippi (920 South Street) and Delta Outfitters (940 U.S. 61 North) are accepting the following donations: buckets, scrubbing brushes, all-purpose cleaners, mops, brooms, washing detergent, comet, sponges, Clorox wipes, etc.

If you would like to make a monetary donation and track how these donations are being used in our community, please visit www.unitedwayvicksburg.org or drop by the United Way office to provide cash or checks payable to United Way of West Central Mississippi.

One hundred percent of all donations will be used to meet the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by the floodwaters — 100 percent in, 100 percent out. 

2. Providing assistance — If your primary home has been affected by the floodwaters, United Way of West Central Mississippi will assist you (as donations permit) with temporary rental assistance, first time deposits, utilities and/or food. 

Please contact the United Way office at 601-636-1733 for more information or to sign up.

Kamie May is the communications director for the United Way of West Central Mississippi.