Resources for Relief and Readiness

July 9, 2013

As we continue to monitor the businesses impacted by the flood and also promote ways to help individuals, we want to be sure that you have the resources you need, not only for relief, but also to be ready the next time a disaster strikes.

Resources: The Assistance Center is Open

The Assistance Center at University Mall in Chapel Hill is open seven days a week to to connect both individuals and businesses to resources. The center, located between Dillard's and GNC, is open Monday - Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Individuals may also call the Assistance Center at (919) 903-0676, (919) 903-0677, (919) 903-0678, or (919) 903-0679.

Relief: Three Ways You Can Help

Many members have asked how they can help those displaced by the floods. We are directing folks to help in one of three ways:

Make a contribution to the Friends of Orange County DSS. 100% of all funds raised between now and August 1 will be designated for flood relief to help these families secure permanent housing, beds, cribs, furnishings, household goods and supplies.

Donate gently used furniture and goods to the PTA Thrift Shop, located at 89 S. Elliott Road in Chapel Hill or to Orange Congregations in Mission (OCIM), located at 300 Millstone Drive in Hillsborough. Both agencies will allow displaced families to shop for clothes and household items for free.

Offer vacant rental property for a temporary period of time. If you have a vacant unit, please contact the Housing, Human Rights and Community Development Department at 919.245.2490. All properties will be listed in a referral database that will be available to caseworkers assisting flood victims.

Readiness: How You Can Be Ready for the Next Disaster

It's important for all small businesses to be ready for the next disaster. Here are a few ways to ensure you're ready:

Determine whether your home or business is in a flood plain
Consider purchasing flood insurance (find an agent that writes flood insurance)
Make an appointment with a Chamber member insurance agent
Make a disaster management plan (resources here and here)

Again, Thank You to Our Members

We've been so touched by all the members who have asked how they can help and those that really have stepped up to the plate. We know that there are many more, but a special thank you to the following businesses and business owners who answered the call: