Hi, there

For the past few days I have been struggling to decide what to write my column about. There are so many events and topics spiralling around it is hard pick, but there is one that is on many Iowans minds, the damage caused by the derecho.

On Aug. 10. I spent most of my day driving around Washington and surrounding communities taking pictures of damage and seeing residents cleaning up after the short but destructive storm.

Though Washington and many surrounding communities were mostly spared massive damage, Cedar Rapids and other communities are struggling to get the help they need.

So this week I decided instead of writing about my opinions, I am going to list a few ways community members can help the Iowans impacted by the derecho.

For people who want to volunteer, you can visit uweci.org/volunteernow or you can go to the volunteer reception center located at the Emergency Management Agency, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, or call 224-406-1366.

For those who wish to donate, there are many organizations locally and nationally helping those in need.

Advocates for Social Justice is coordinating meal and supply drop offs to vulnerable neighborhoods in Cedar Rapids. Donations can be made at givebutter.com/AlliesRallyForJustice/donwilliams.

The Catherine McAuley Center coordinates resources and relief for immigrant populations. Donations can be made at cmc-cr.org/ways-to-give/

The Heritage Area Agency on Aging is coordinating, food distributions, shelf-stable food box and bag deliveries to residents who cannot get to distributions and funding to their 15 senior dining locations and home-delivered meals services. You may donate to them through their website.

The Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank is donating diapers and wipes to families in need during the disaster. Donations may be made at eidiaperbank.org/youcanhelp/donate-now/

Horizons coordinates Meals on Wheels for Linn County and is struggling to get meals to residents. Donations may be made on their website.

Donations can make a huge difference for those who are in need right now. Even the smallest amount can make a difference.

This information and more can be found an article on the Gazette website titled 'Iowans were devastated by the derecho: Here's how you can help.”