• Amy Burke

The Salvation Army Responds To Severe Flooding in Upper Michigan

WAUWATOSA, WISCONSIN - The Salvation Army is assisting in the Upper Peninsula after heavy rainfalls caused flooding and severe road damage in Houghton, Ontanogan and Keweenaw Counties overnight.

The area received four to seven inches of rain and 60 sinkholes have been reported in the area. 

Auxiliary Captain Leonita Schweigert, with The Salvation Army of Hancock, said a temporary shelter is up and running. The temporary shelter is located at the Calumet Colosseum, 110 Red Jacket Rd. in Calumet, MI. 

With the assistance of the American Red Cross, 500 flood cleanup kits are also being prepared for residents affected by the storms. The flood kits will be available starting Thursday at The Salvation Army of Hancock, 408 Ravine St.

"The flood cleanup kits will include a bucket, a mop, a broom, a squeegee, a scrub brush, disinfectant, bleach, rubber gloves, work gloves, garbage bags and respirator masks," said Terri Leece, the Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan. "All the handles on the larger items are collapsable so everything fits in a bucket."

Residents who have questions or need assistance due to the flood are advised to call 2-1-1. An operator will refer you to the agency that can help you best.

"The Salvation Army has 72 cases of drinking water coming in from Mejier in Marquette, Michigan. We are also partnering with the Copper Country Humane Society to get food and supplies for your pets," Schweigert said. "For those who can not travel on the roads that are closed, please contact us at 906-482-3420 to make arrangements to receive the items you need."

HOW TO HELP:

Volunteer to pass out flood cleanup kits: http://salar.my/VFQFHR
Donate online: http://salar.my/9Dux2D
Text your donation: Text MIFlood to 41444
Mail: The Salvation Army - Hancock, 408 Ravine St. PO Box 389, Hancock, MI 49930

Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.