Connellsville Flood Victims Thankful For Acts Of Kindness, Generosity
CONNELLSVILLE (KDKA) -- Connellsville remains under a state of emergency after flash flooding over the weekend destroyed homes and businesses and washed away property like cars and valuables.
More than 50 people have been displaced and the damage is estimated in the millions of dollars.
Now, a curfew has been put into place due to a lack of electricity and impassable roads in some areas. It goes into effect at 7:30 p.m. Also, dozens of customers are being told to boil their water.
As for the start of the school year for Connellsville area students, that's been pushed back until next Tuesday, which is more than a week later than scheduled.
But in the midst all of the tragedy, there are heartwarming acts of generosity.
It was a beautiful day to be anywhere but flood-torn areas of Fayette County, but that's where Ben Keller wanted to be.
"It's just the right thing to do. I've got nothing else going on today," said Keller, of Bullskin Township.
He is one of the small army of people just trying to do what they can for people facing incredible post-flood challenges.
"Handing out cleaning supplies, mops, brooms, water, whatever people need to help clean up," Keller said.
Jessica Vaughn and Janal Narduzzi are both Connellsville area teachers. With the school year delayed because of the flood, the two educators went to work in a different way help their students.
"When you see the request for help, you just have to help," said Narduzzi. "It's our family, even though we don't live here, it's still part of our lives."
Brenda Grimm's home was spared damage, so she's opened it up for those in need.
"If anybody needs laundry, showers down on this end, I'm up on Breakiron Road. We're willing to open our house if anybody needs anything," said Grimm.
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Although they are busy and preoccupied with what's going to happen with the rest of their lives, those cleaning up from the flood appreciate the efforts.
"You have no idea," said Stacy Wadsworth. "Just knowing that people will come in here and help you without even knowing who you are or what you stand for, it's amazing."
Wadsworth's mother had her home destroyed in the flooding.
If you'd like to contribute or volunteer to help the flood victims, visit the local fire departments for further instructions. They need donations of mops, bleach, cleaning equipment.
But do not bring donated furniture, as they don't have the space to store it.
For more information on how you can help, or if you're a victim of the flooding. Here's more important info: