WLTRG Disaster Case Management Has Begun
The Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group (WLTRG) in collaboration with the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Division of Emergency Management, is working to provide coordination and recovery services to individuals, families, businesses and communities that were adversely affected by the severe Whatcom County flooding and mudslides that occurred in November 2021. Initially formed under the name Whatcom Strong through the grassroots efforts of local churches, city officials and residents, the group quickly mobilized to collect data, organize volunteers, collect and distribute resources including food, clothing and household goods, provide emergency grants for basic needs and emergent repairs, coordinate with local non-profits and eventually established themselves as the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group. Modeled after the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters Long Term Recovery Group Model the WLTRG is currently working to contact those impacted by flooding in order to assist with disaster relief and recovery.
Currently, one Disaster Case Manager Lead and 8 local Disaster Case Managers (DCMs) are working to contact more than 1,500 households impacted to assess current needs. DCMs are on the front lines of long-term recovery efforts. They open and maintain files on each individual needing assistance, refer them to resources, help them develop recovery plans, represent their needs at the Unmet Needs Committee roundtable, schedule volunteers through our Volunteer Committee leader and represent their needs to our Repairs and Rebuild Committee leader. All of the WLTRGs assistance efforts funnel through Disaster Case Managers (DCMs) and DCMs will be prioritizing resources and needs throughout the recovery process. DCMs will be prioritizing resources and needs throughout the recovery process.
To learn more, or to contribute to assist in the recovery efforts, visit the homepage and click the “DONATE” button to be directed to the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group fund established through the Whatcom Community Foundation. All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
