2,500 volunteers helping locally after hurricane.
Hurricane Idalia cleanup efforts are still ongoing in different regions of South Georgia and North Florida. One religious group is saying that it’s still serving residents who were impacted by the storm.
In a Friday press release, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said it would continue its work, operating out of command centers in Lake City, Chiefland and Madison, as well as Valdosta, Georgia. Volunteers with the church are still working to clear debris, remove downed trees and help residents tarp rooftops.
To get assistance, residents may visit call 800-451-1954 to get on the group’s list. The hotline number will remain open through Friday.
“We are grateful that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and friends can come in from outside areas and help those affected in our North Central Florida area,” Scott Hinson, the president of the Lake City Stake of the church, said in the release. “We are extremely appreciative of the assistance and cooperation of the county government as this service is rendered. It is an opportunity for each one of our members to stay true to the commandment from our Lord to love our neighbors as ourselves.”
According to the release, 1,734 volunteers from more than 100 congregations in Florida and Alabama camped out near or in command centers, working through the weekend and completing 759 work orders for Idalia victims.
Another 2,500 volunteers from Florida and Georgia will continue that this weekend. The Church has also helped victims of previous hurricanes, including Ian, Ida, Katrina, Ike, Gustav, Isaac, Matthew, Michael and Florence. Those wishing to volunteer in Lake City can visit the command center at 909 Country Club Rd.
“Serving our community is the same as serving our Savior,” Hinson said. “We love our community, and we love Jesus Christ.”