World Renew Helps in Flooding Cleanup

World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS)  recently joined with other groups to help in the cleanup effort following record-high flooding in the greater Grand Rapids, Mich. area.

World Renew — the disaster relief and development agency of the CRC — responded to flooding at Ideal Park CRC in Wyoming, Mich.

Volunteers brought in two large pumps and a generator to remove 18 inches of water from the church basement.

The church and more than 700 other homes and businesses were without power and an emergency shelter was set up nearby, along with three more in the area.

Flooding of the Grand River reached 100-year record levels last week, submerging homes on the north side of Grand Rapids and flowing over land along Plaster Creek, Buck Creek, and the Rogue River in Kent and the surrounding counties.

The Grand River peaked early Sunday morning. Smaller rivers and creeks are expected to crest and begin to recede throughout the week.

 Glenn and Betty Geurink, early response coordinators for DRS, are connecting with church and community leaders and will begin to survey neighborhoods for damage, care for those who have been affected, and help determine the need for additional response.

To assist flood survivors in West Michigan and others affected by severe weather in the US this spring, designate a gift to "Spring Storms 2013," and mail to World Renew, 2850 Kalamazoo SE, Grand Rapids, Mich.,  49560.

Or donate by giving online by selecting "Spring Storms 2013" from the Disasters - North America category or call 1-800-552-7972.