June 5, 2009

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- When disaster strikes, West Virginians often grab the chance to help their neighbors, near and far. Many residents who escaped the devastation caused by the severe May storms pitched in to donate clothing, furniture, household items and other goods. Some donated their time to clean up homes and yards, and some donated money to volunteer agencies working hard to help disaster survivors.

Now there is an easy way for people to donate to disaster recovery. The West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (WV VOAD) web site, www.wvvoad.org provides a "one-click" link to a site that allows anyone to donate money, goods or time. For those who prefer to mail a check, make checks payable to "Disaster Relief Fund". The mailing address is:

Disaster Relief Fund
c/o United Methodist Foundation of West Virginia
P.O. Box 3811,
Charleston, WV 25338.

"We have a culture in West Virginia of helping each other in times of need," said Cheryl Ingraham, WV VOAD state chair. "Successful disaster recovery takes many generous hearts and willing hands."

WV VOAD facilitates a collaborative partnership with a number of volunteer organizations and faith communities, and with the State and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The partnership ensures efficient service delivery while eliminating duplication of effort.

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism and man-made disasters.

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