WESTERNPORT — A disaster resource center has opened for those impacted by flash flooding Tuesday on Georges Creek, and a new fundraising effort launched to support their recovery.
The recovery center will serve as a central hub for connecting residents and municipalities to critical services and support, the Allegany County Department of Emergency Services said.
“As the official outlet supported by Allegany County and MDEM (Maryland Department of Emergency Management), this centralized approach is essential to prevent duplication, confusion and inefficiencies during this time of urgent need,” the county said in a release.
The center, which was opened over the weekend, will operate Monday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Wednesday (1 to 7 p.m.) at the Bruce Outreach Center in Westernport, and Tuesday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Thursday (1 to 7 p.m.) at the Good Will Fire Company Armory in Lonaconing.
At the sites, the Allegany County Department of Social Services will assist residents with SNAP benefits, access to clothing closets, child welfare services, replacement of birth certificates, Motor Vehicle Administration connections and transportation vouchers.
Also available will be mental health and emotional care services, the American Red Cross with cleanup kits and the Maryland Insurance Service to assist residences with claims.
Western Maryland Strong
The county is partnering with the Community Trust Fund for the Western Maryland Strong Fund, which was designed to “provide a secure and reliable repository for contributions, ensuring support reaches individuals and families impacted by the flooding with flexible aid for evolving needs.”
The fund will address the ongoing flood emergency and the broader need across Allegany and Garrett counties, the Community Trust Fund said.
To donate, visit //ctfinc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=2650.
Cleanup hotline
Residents and businesses are encouraged to request cleanup help using the Crisis Clean Up hotline.
Those requesting help will be connected with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith community members that may be able to assist.
All services are free, but help is not guaranteed due to overwhelming demand, county officials said. The hotline will remain open through May 30.
To contact the hotline, call 301-360-4719.
Section of Savage River Road closed indefinitely
A significant section of Savage River Road between Big Run Road and Westernport Road was washed out, and Garrett County officials have confirmed that the river diverted from its original channel in this area.
Despite the road washout, the bridge on Savage River Road remains structurally intact, though access to and around it remains limited due to road instability.
Also, Aaron’s Run Road is closed due to a culvert failure.
“Our focus is on evaluating damage thoroughly and developing a plan to rebuild,” said Garrett County Roads Division Chief Paul Harvey.
“The diverted river flow presents additional complications, and we are working with engineering teams and partner agencies to plan next steps.
Planet Fitness opens doors
Planet Fitness is opening its doors to the community.
Through May 30, anyone in need of complimentary bottled water, HydroMassages, hot showers, wifi or workouts is welcome at its Cumberland club on Industrial Boulevard.
The club said it is working with the Frostburg Police Department to collect cleaning products, toiletries, laundry supplies and clothing for those who have been affected by the flooding.
Requested items include men’s, women’s and children’s clothing (all sizes), bath towels, washcloths, laundry detergent, laundry baskets, Lysol, trash bags, mops, buckets, Clorox wipes, paper towels, brooms, toilet paper and travel size shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, soap and deodorant.
Schools remain closed
Westernport Elementary, George’s Creek Elementary and Westmar Middle School will remain closed Monday.
Local and county officials have requested George’s Creek and Westmar schools remain closed another day to build up the water supply. Both schools are planning to reopen Tuesday.
George’s Creek and Westmar staff will report to Mountain Ridge High School.
Westernport staff will follow directions from their administration.