Flood Relief Efforts Move Forward, Help Still Needed

Although the flood damage and loss are extensive, we remain inspired by the incredible sense of community and kindness across our state.

Habitat Omaha’s Flood Relief Task Force continues to mobilize staff, partners and volunteers to aid with relief efforts and support immediate clean-up efforts. This includes clearing out flood-damaged homes and providing logistical support to other relief teams. We know when initial flood cleanup work concludes, home repairs will be an important next step. Our team has also begun strategizing how we can support this critical part of the response.

Crisis Cleanup Hotline

Volunteers for the Crisis Cleanup hotline are still needed. Habitat Omaha will provide training for this essential effort to connect flood victims with reputable relief organizations. To learn more about this opportunity, contact Jenny atjschroeder@habitatomaha.org.

Preparing to Respond

For those who are able to volunteer with clean-up efforts, our Flood Relief Task Force has created a list of tips to help you prepare:

• Make sure you’re up to date on your tetanus shot.
• Have work boots or rain boots ready. Proper footwear is required for volunteers’ safety. Hard-toed shoes are preferred.
• Plan to dress for the work with durable pants and long-sleeved shirts.
• Expect to travel as projects could be in Fremont and other locations outside the Omaha-metro.

Team Rubicon Personnel Arrive in Omaha

Habitat Omaha is fortunate to have strong partnerships with key organizations that specialize in disaster relief. Among these incredible partners is Team Rubicon, a nonprofit that uses the skills of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams to areas impacted by disasters.

Over the past three years, Habitat Omaha has teamed up with Team Rubicon and the Salvation Army to conduct simulated disaster trainings. Because of these partnerships and trainings, we are grateful to be able to respond more effectively to real damage.

Team Rubicon arrived in Omaha last week, quickly setting up a “forward operating base” at the Salvation Army’s Kroc Center and has begun damage assessments. With training in debris management, hazard mitigation, expedient home repairs and more, Team Rubicon is a crucial partner in our efforts. Our plan is to start connecting volunteer groups with Team Rubicon in the next few days, with individual volunteer opportunities available soon after.

More Help is Still Needed

We are focused on supporting our neighbors so they can reclaim stability in their homes as soon as possible.