Franklin County supports disaster relief

The Franklin County Emergency Management Agency, along with local municipalities, are inviting all members of the community and local businesses to participate in a disaster relief effort following Hurricane Florence that recently damaged the East Coast. Their goal is to help in

the clean-up efforts that will begin as flood waters recede.

“We know firsthand what it’s like to recover from a disaster like that, so we decided to think outside of the box,” county EMA director Jody Hitt said.

The demolition and clean-up process is expected to last for several weeks, and ongoing support is essential to the recovery process, Hitt added.

To show support, donations can be made at the Walmart parking lot, 13675 Highway 43 Russellville. A 53-foot trailer labeled Disaster Relief Drop Off Location is on site for collection. Items can also be dropped off at city and town halls in Franklin County.

The drop -ff location will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Sept. 29. Hitt said organizers are hoping to have everything ready to send off by Tuesday Oct. 2.

Below is a list of some needed items:

Hammers – claw, sledge, rip and others
Shovels, flat pry bars and crow bars
Pliers – side cutters, nippers, etc.
Hand scoops
Push brooms, brooms and dust pans
Garbage bags, all sizes
Rolls of plastic or tarps
Disinfectants, including Clorox Wipes, Bleach and Mean Green
Dust masks (M-95)
Safety glasses
Gloves, all sizes
Shop-Vacs
Batteries, all sizes
Flashlights