The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore has created an emergency relief fund for victims of the catastrophic flash flooding in Ellicott City on May 27.
According to the Associated’s website, “One hundred percent of the funds collected in Baltimore will be directed to assist the individuals impacted by the flash flood.” (To make a donation, click here.)
The Memorial Day weekend flooding was the second time in two years that the historic Main Street district in Howard County was devastated by a flood. Sunday’s flooding caused the death of National Guardsman Sgt. Eddison “Eddie” A. Hermond and left the historic district in ruins.
Although local officials said 96 percent of Ellicott City’s businesses rebuilt after the 2016 flooding (and 20 new businesses arose since), it remains unclear whether businesses and residents will take such a gamble again. This year’s flooding, which dumped almost 8 inches of rain on Main Street, is reported to exceed the 2016 disaster.
“Our hearts go out to our neighbors in Ellicott City in the aftermath of the devastating floods,” said Associated President Marc B. Terrill. “The Associated mobilizes in times of crisis to give our constituents an outlet to respond in meaningful ways, particularly when it is so close to home. This is The Associated and our system in action — uniting our community during times of challenge to provide for critical needs.”
In a statement, Beth Millstein and Ralph Grunewald, president and interim executive director, respectively, of the Jewish Federation of Howard County, said their organization “is watching with deep concern the flooding this weekend in Ellicott City. We applaud the state and local authorities, including Gov. Larry Hogan and County Executive Allan Kittleman, for their quick response to this emergency — and we send our thoughts and prayers to all those personally affected by this disaster. The JFHC will continue to monitor the unfolding situation and stands ready to mobilize the Jewish community to help in any way possible.”
Also see: Benefits scheduled for Ellicott City after devastating flood — Baltimore Fishbowl
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