Et cetera : NCCC Maple 2 members lessening the grip of the great flood

An AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) team, Maple 2, has been sent to Minot, N.D. to help Lutheran Disaster Response in their recovery efforts in the wake of the June 2011 flood that devastated the area. A massive amount of rainfall in Canada, in combination with rain and melting snow in North Dakota contributed to the flooding of the Souris (“Mouse”) River last year, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes. Lutheran Disaster Response is working with multiple faith-based organizations to promote their mission of hope, healing, and wholeness to the flood victims. The team is working to wash and sanitize houses damaged in the flood in the hopes victims can return to the places they have always called home. This process includes removing any ruined material left in the home and stripping it down to the studs, power-washing the ceiling, walls and floor as well as sanitizing with a solution that prevents mold growth. Minot is hosting the NCCC team until November 1. In addition to assisting Lutheran Disaster Response, Maple 2 has been volunteering at the Minot Public Library and has helped with a “Coats for Kids” clothing drive. They also have plans to work at the Dakota Air Museum, the Roosevelt Park Zoo and the Norsk Hostfest, the largest Scandinavian festival in North America.