Volunteers Work To Help Flood Evacuees

berriensflood

A shelter has been set up at Berrien Springs Middle School for local families displaced by flooding this week. One girl we spoke with, Yurida, told us she had to leave her home quickly when it was evacuated.

“We called the lady who rents the house and [asked] her if we could go back to get our stuff, but she told us it’s already too late with the water,” Yurida said.

Yurida told WSJM News her mom tells her not to worry. Salvation Army volunteer Kendra told us she’s met several families in the same situation.

“I know I had one family come through and they were just kind of in shock,” Kendra said. “They weren’t really sure to how respond to things. I know a lot of people have been looking for clothes and things like that they’re missing.”

The Salvation Army and the Red Cross have been helping out in Berrien Springs and Niles. Anyone who wants to donate money to either would be helping greatly. The flooding situation is in a holding pattern now in Berrien Springs. In Niles, city officials said Thursday the St. Joseph River peaked Wednesday night. City staff continue to monitor infrastructure affected by flooding. The city says its wastewater treatment system is holding up. It’s also set up a website for residents who live in a flood zone, which can be found right here.

The United Way of Southwest Michigan has also set up a fund for local flood victims. You can make a donation right here.