State officials last week issued advice for people who want to help those affected by historic flooding in Harney County. They remind potential donors that financial assistance is preferred to other forms of support.
More than 70 homes were damaged in Burns during the flooding that triggered Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek to declare a state of emergency in Harney County.
Officials have warned that the Silvies River is expected to rise early next week above flood stage.
Here is the advice from the Oregon Office of Emergency Management:
- Financial support to voluntary agencies is the most efficient and flexible way to help those impacted.
- Cash donations allow organizations to purchase exactly what is needed, when and where it’s needed—without delay.
- Unsolicited food and clothing donations slow the aid and recovery process, as organizations are left sorting and disposing of unusable items instead of providing support to survivors.
- To make a financial gift visit redcross.org/cascades or go to https://www.orvoad.org/current-members/ for a list of trusted organizations.
- You can also check an organization’s GuideStar rating to see how they rank among their peers and ensure they are a reputable organization.
- Be careful around donating to individual fundraiser accounts like GoFundMe. GoFundMe has some tips and best practices to avoid common scams and to protect yourself.
- The Oregon Department of Financial Regulation also has some guidance to protect yourself from fraud and exploitation, including for those needing to hire contractors for repair work.
The agency asks that volunteers wishing to help do not deploy to the area on their own. “The arrival of uncoordinated volunteers can interfere with response efforts and create safety issues,“ a release from the agency said.
Instead, here is the Emergency Department’s advice:
- Volunteers will be needed most during the recovery phase—your help will be vital, but timing and coordination are key.
- To register your interest in volunteering, contact the Harney Hub by calling 541-573-6024. You may also volunteer with the American Red Cross Cascades Region through their volunteer portal at redcross.org/volunteer.
- Local organizations will provide training and placement as needs are identified.
The department also advises against given unsolicited items, which it said can overwhelm local resources. Instead, the agency advises:
- Only donate items that are specifically requested by officials. Items not needed may go to waste and slow down relief efforts.
- For local coordination of approved donations, contact Burns Christian Church, which is working with the American Red Cross.
- Call the donation coordinator – 541-573-7176 for more information.
--The Oregonian/OregonLive