waiting on assistance from FEMA and organizations like ASP.
Why We Work Here
Wyoming County is one of the poorest in Appalachia with a poverty rate of 25.1% (national rate is 12%) and a median household income of $24,030 in 2007. We have been a consistent presence in the area, since we own and routinely house volunteers at the Guyan Valley Center. ASP has built a great reputation in the community due to the hard work of several past staffs. Additionally, because of the large number of applications ASP receives in the area each year, we are committed to serving in the area for years to come.
Culture & History
Wyoming County was hit severely by flooding in mid-July 2001. More than eight inches of rain fell in the span of two hours, leaving no time for it to soak into the ground. Bridges caught downed trees and served as dams. Roads and railroads near bends in creeks were completely washed out. And many homes and businesses were completely covered in the flood waters. Fortunately, the rains came in the daytime, so there was only one casualty in the county. Had this occurred at night, hundreds could have died in the rapidly rising waters.
This severe flooding is the reason ASP had two centers in the county in 2002. Many people were affected, many still have not received help, and still others received temporary help from FEMA but have not yet repaired their homes to a point where they can live in them again.
Now, years later, there are still families who can use housing assistance, as we’ve been told by community members.
No comments:
Post a Comment