8/25/04

Update From District Disaster Coordinator:
Calls were received from Lutz, Palm Harbor, Brandon, Clermont, a student group at University of South Florida and Forest Hills United Methodist Church wishing to send clean-up teams to the Lakeland area this weekend. These were referred to appropriate sites in Lake Wales, Wauchula and Zolfo Springs for specific assignments. Meals continue to be served, and groceries and other needed items are being distributed by United Methodist churches in Bowling Green, Zolfo Springs and Wahneta. Contributions of supplies are coming from as far away as the North Georgia Conference and the Bowling Green District of Kentucky. Local sources are the County ERC, American Red Cross, United Way and the Salvation Army, as well as many local United Methodist Churches. 

Numerous concerns for the agricultural workers in our area have been expressed because of the fear there won’t be many crops to harvest. There is likely to be an ongoing need for support of these people. 

Plantation United Methodist Church, Plantation:
Sent a work team to Bartow to assist in clearing downed trees from the yards of area residents. 

First United Methodist Church, Lakeland, and Avon Park United Methodist Church, Avon Park:
Continue making significant effort in supporting the centers in the southern part of our district.

Bill Gill|
Lakeland District Disaster Response