On August 10th, widespread, destructive, straight-line winds blew across central Iowa. The most extreme winds, estimated to be at 110-140 miles-per-hour, destroyed or damaged numerous outbuildings, barns, grain bins, homes, mobile homes, apartment buildings, trees and power poles in parts of Benton, Linn, Jones, Cedar and Clinton Counties. The Cedar Rapids area was particularly hard hit. As #PeopleOfAction, we would like to do what we can to help our neighbors to the south.
- The Rotary Club of Linn County has set up a donation site for monetary contributions to donate to help Cedar Rapids area disaster relief efforts. If you personally or your club collectively would like to donate, please visit https://rotarylc.square.
site/. There is a 2020 Derecho Relief section.
- The Rotary Club of Linn County is also collecting several items that are needed in the community, everything from toiletries to chain saw oil. For a delivery address, please contact Michelle Bell, at (319) 431-2755. Needed items are:
- Drinking water,
- Chain saw oil,
- Two-cycle oil,
- Chainsaw chains,
- Diapers,
- Baby wipes,
- Formula,
- Peanut butter,
- Shelf stable food,
- Tarps,
- Coolers,
- Flashlights,
- Extension cords,
- Toiletries,
- Large trash bags,
- Paper towels,
- Batteries and
- Feminine products.
- There is a specific interest in roofers and tree removal experts that are willing to travel to the area. There is both volunteer and paid work available. Currently, tree removal companies are quoting 90-120 days for removals. If you have connections to any roofing companies or tree removal companies, your help would be greatly needed!
Any help is appreciated. Our Rotary family in Iowa needs support.