Published: June 17, 2009 01:42 pm      

Group offers help for those still rebuilding from wildfires

A new group has formed to help assist those still rebuilding after the April 9 wildfires.

The group, who set its name as the Eastern Oklahoma County Disaster Resources at its third meeting Thursday, is comprised of representatives from churches, civic groups and concerned citizens from Choctaw and the surrounding area.

The local representatives hold meetings with representatives from agencies such as Catholic Charities, the American Red Cross, the United Way and Oklahoma Emergency Management in order to see what needs they can help meet.

At the last meeting, Kirsten Lee, director of the family support services for Catholic Charities, reported that only three families have contacted Catholic Charities to seek assistance. The American Red Cross reported that they have sent letters to all their previous clients encouraging them to contact Catholic Charities if assistance is still needed. The group decided that spreading the word to residents that may need help is one of its top priorities.

The group also discussed a plan to help them stay organized while collecting donations, both physical and monetary.

Brian Sturtz, pastor of Harmony Christian Church, serves as chair of the group. He said the group is still looking for people to help serve. He said they are especially in need of concerned community members and faith-based community organizations to get involved.

“When we say get involved, it doesn’t necessarily mean coming to a meeting,” he said. Sturtz explained that anyone with resources such as supplies or able bodies that could aid in this disaster or one that may come in the future is encouraged to contact him at 391-7310.

The next meeting is set for 1 p.m. July 6 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Choctaw, located at 14950 N.E. 3rd Street.

Editor’s Note: As information comes along on how citizens in Eastern Oklahoma County can help meet needs of families trying to rebuild, the information will be printed in The Sun.



SIDENOTE: Citizens affected by the April 9 wildfires who still need assistance in obtaining housing, furniture, clothing or food are asked to contact Catholic Charities at 523-3028 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Request to speak with Allison Craig or Kirsten Lee.