The FEMA registration deadline for storm-related assistance has passed so now LTRO officials are beginning to see just what unmet needs remain in Bradley County after deadly twisters ripped through the community, killing nine people and damaging or destroying hundreds of homes in their path.
The multiple tornadoes caused millions of dollars in damage.
FEMA and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency worked with the Cleveland-Bradley County Emergency Management Agency to begin the process of recovery.
LTRO is now a nonprofit organization and has taken over the recovery efforts.
According to Mantooth, volunteer case managers last week contacted 36 families who were victims of the storms.
Salvation Army is fielding calls for the long-term relief project.
Mantooth has seven family appointments this week. She also has begun 25 files on families with unmet needs.
LTRO will continue training volunteers who want to help with the recovery and rebuilding of families’ lives.
In a recent meeting of the LTRO board, co-chairman Matt Carlson reminded members to begin contacting all relief organizations, groups, churches and individuals who were involved in the initial response to the community after the April 27 storms. LTRO’s intent is to host a gathering involving representatives of these emergency relief entities to recognize their work, but most importantly to organize follow-up activities because the county’s storm recovery is going.
“We want to fill the room with all those agencies, churches, companies ... anyone who has and can provide resources for these victims,” Carlson said.
The strategic meeting will be held Wednesday, Aug. 31, at 9 a.m. at the Cleveland-Bradley Chamber of Commerce offices in the Village Green.
The Salvation Army Distribution Center on Barney’s Lane continues to distribute necessities for family needs, but officials are now reporting a shortage of detergents, soaps and other cleaning supplies.
Dishwashing soap, all-purpose cleaner, aluminum foil, Kleenex, baby wipes, water bottles, breakfast cereal, toilet paper and furniture are also on the list of needed items.
