DETROIT – Aurelia Ramos used to call Southwest Detroit home and says she was devastated to see how many families were impacted by Monday’s water main break.
Ramos knew the people fleeing their homes were going to be in need of the bare necessities.
“I just felt compelled to help, and I got people to join me,” said Ramos, who first activated fellow PTA members.
Next, Ramos reached out to her Downriver community on Facebook. The response was overwhelming.
“Lots of people from Downriver wanted to help and couldn’t necessarily drive all the way down here, so I just said drop it off at my house, and I’ll make sure it gets to my family,” Ramos said.
On Tuesday (Feb. 18), after helping her friends pick up more donations, she arrived at The Hampton Inn Hotel in Southfield, one of the hotels where displaced residents had been placed.
Together, they unloaded two trucks full of clothes, food, water, shoes and toiletries. They also brought toys, diapers, and wipes for babies.
“We basically took like two bags with us, and that’s all a little thing of clothes and something to eat for them, and that was it,” said Jamie Kaiser.
--> Water main break that flooded SW Detroit neighborhood spurs community aid
Kaiser and her seven and 3-year-old sons were able to pick out shoes, clothes, and food donations.
Leticia Rodriguez left her home with few belongings, too.
“I’m very sad because I don’t know what the situation is for my house,” said Rodriguez.
Rodriguez is grateful for everything people have done to support her and others affected by the water main break.
Those interested in helping flood victims can donate new or clean, lightly used clothing and nonperishable food to the Patton Reaction Center, located at 2301 Woodmere Street in Detroit.
Santos has set up a warming center at 1953 Military Street for flood victims. It will provide a free dinner at 5 p.m. and will be open from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Flood victims can also contact the Southwest Detroit Business Association at 313-774-5261. The city of Detroit offers additional resources.
