Update: Day 1. We were warmly welcomed by the
handful of volunteers already here at the Fire Station on Florence in
Union Beach, NJ when we arrived about 9pm last night. Police from around
the north east stopped by to welcome us and ask how they could support
out relief efforts. We've heard first hand stories of people being
turned away from helping in other towns so it's great to have local
support. From what we know, we're the
only people offering food in this town. There was a shelter & hot
food in Keanesburg nearby but they've been evacuated due to tonight's
storm. We're in the midst of a snow storm that is supposed to continue
until tomorrow morning.
Our friends here had some food and a supply/kitchen tent set-up and had made a few meals when they arrived yesterday. Breakfast of coffee & pancakes this morning was a slow trickle of people but they spread the word. For lunch - grilled cheese & veggie soup - I would guess we served about 60 people who were very appreciative of a hot meal. Some are locals who lost everything, some relief workers, police, home inspectors, elderly, kids and everything in between. I'm not sure how many will brave the storm tonight but we expect people to come by for dinner, now that they know we're here.
There are about 8 of us volunteers here at the "Firehouse Grill" and more are expected to come. Our friends are intending to stay as long as necessary. Circus and I will stay as long as they need our help, then head to other communities with our mobile kitchen & truck.
It was a cold night in the Uhaul but it'll be much colder tonight. Good thing Circus has 2 zip-together -20 mummy bags.
So far your donations have gone to food@costco, fuel on the way, and the rental truck to get and store it here. We'll keep you updated, probably about once a day. Verizon came out and hooked up the wifi at the fire station this morning and the generators were re-fueled this morning so we have connection. Of course there's no power here but we've got propane burners and generator-powered lights in the kitchen tent.
Love to you all! Know we're safe, warm enough, and happy to help. The houses on this block are condemned, all their possessions on the street or in dumpsters, and we've heard sad story after devastation tale. We're hoping to feed people and give them your support from across the country. Locals are surprised and touched by all of your concern and donations. Check out the pics Circus has posted and on my wall. More tomorrow!
Our friends here had some food and a supply/kitchen tent set-up and had made a few meals when they arrived yesterday. Breakfast of coffee & pancakes this morning was a slow trickle of people but they spread the word. For lunch - grilled cheese & veggie soup - I would guess we served about 60 people who were very appreciative of a hot meal. Some are locals who lost everything, some relief workers, police, home inspectors, elderly, kids and everything in between. I'm not sure how many will brave the storm tonight but we expect people to come by for dinner, now that they know we're here.
There are about 8 of us volunteers here at the "Firehouse Grill" and more are expected to come. Our friends are intending to stay as long as necessary. Circus and I will stay as long as they need our help, then head to other communities with our mobile kitchen & truck.
It was a cold night in the Uhaul but it'll be much colder tonight. Good thing Circus has 2 zip-together -20 mummy bags.
So far your donations have gone to food@costco, fuel on the way, and the rental truck to get and store it here. We'll keep you updated, probably about once a day. Verizon came out and hooked up the wifi at the fire station this morning and the generators were re-fueled this morning so we have connection. Of course there's no power here but we've got propane burners and generator-powered lights in the kitchen tent.
Love to you all! Know we're safe, warm enough, and happy to help. The houses on this block are condemned, all their possessions on the street or in dumpsters, and we've heard sad story after devastation tale. We're hoping to feed people and give them your support from across the country. Locals are surprised and touched by all of your concern and donations. Check out the pics Circus has posted and on my wall. More tomorrow!
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