Some 15,000 homes in the five-state region have been affected. President Clinton has declared counties in California, Idaho and Nevada eligible for Federal aid. Oregon and Washington are awaiting disaster declarations. Receding waters in some areas allowed evacuees to return to their homes to clean up, but officials warned that they faced hazards from raw sewage, dead animals, and chemicals that may have contaminated the water. As cleanup efforts get under way, there are likely to be pressing needs in economically distressed areas, particularly in the American Indian and immigrant communities.
Swift action is necessary.
CWS uses 100 per cent of all denominational contributions for assistance to disaster survivors. It is important to notify the CWS Emergency Response Office of any grants sent directly. When sending funds directly, please notify the recipient that your grant should be included in reporting of total income figures for disaster recovery. Pack all kits in sturdy cartons. Multiple kits may be boxed together.