ETSU Response
Tennessee Flooding Response and Relief Efforts
On Saturday, August 21, flash floods struck middle Tennessee, resulting in at least 22 deaths. Many others remain missing, as crews continue to attempt rescue and recovery efforts across our state.
The flooding has damaged many structures, and has swept away homes, infrastructures, schools, and other important facilities in several counties across Tennessee.
Need help or want to help?
- The Community Foundation of Middle Tennesseehas activated its Tennessee Emergency Response Fund to help those affected by flooding in Humphreys, Dickson, Houston and Hickman counties.
- Nashville's Community Resource Center has updated its Amazon wish listand is coordinating with officials to determine a safe response, the organization posted on Twitter. CRC's website also lists immediate needs for debris removal, supplies for first responders and supplies for unhoused flood victims. Monetary donations can be made at CRC's website.
- A Crisis Cleanup service is in place for Tennesseans who need help with debris removal and home cleanup from the recent flooding. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the expected overwhelming need. Individuals needing assistance should call the hotline at 615-338-7404.
- The American Red Crosscontinues to serve those affected by the recent flooding. Emergency assistance is available to individuals whose homes were destroyed or majorly impacted. For more information, please contact the American Red Cross by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
- The Waverly Animal Shelter is in immediate need of foster homes for displaced animals. The shelter, along with the Humphreys County Humane Society, has also been helping connect lost pets with their owners. Waverly Animal Shelter also requesting donations of drinking water for the animals, large kennels, dog and cat food, and cleaning supplies such as paper towels, bleach, and disinfectant. Shelter staff are not sure what animals are available for foster but will be posting information individually on its Facebook page. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter at 108 Young Rd, Waverly, TN 37185. The shelter's hours currently vary, but staff should be on-site between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Call 931-296-7319 for more information or before dropping off donation
- Humphreys County Nursing Home is accepting donated items for flood victims, according to the Humphreys County Emergency Management Agency’s Facebook page. The page has additional information on immediate needs and services available to assist that area.
How to avoid charity scams
- Check to see if the non-profit is registered online HERE or by calling 615-741-2555.
- Ask questions on how and who will benefit from your donation. Resist pressure to give on the spot.
- If you are asked for a donation through text or email, contact the charity or nonprofit directly to verify the request.
- If you give through an app or website, ask if it is going directly to the organization.
- Don't assume a social media or blog recommendation has been approved by the nonprofit.
- Avoid giving cash.
- Always try to get a receipt for your donations and ask if it is tax deductible.
- If a paid fundraiser asks you for a donation, ask how much is kept by the fundraiser and how much goes to the nonprofit.
ETSU Support Services
The ETSU community provides support services for students, faculty, and staff who may have been affected by this disaster. The ETSU Dean of Students office is reaching out to offer to support and assistance to students who have home addresses listed in the counties impacted by the floods.
The ETSU Counseling Center provides personal counseling for students, as well as outreach and referrals. Students may access the ETSU Counseling Center at (423) 439-3333. The Counseling Center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Telehealth/Zoom services are also available. The Bucs Press 2 service is available 24/7/365 by dialing (423) 439-4841 and pressing 2 to speak to a counselor.
Student veterans who may have questions or need support are welcome to reach out to the ETSU Veteran’s Affairs office.
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a resource for faculty and staff who need counseling support and referral to other resources.
Student Organization Efforts
Leadership and Civic Engagement, housed within the Ronald and Edith J. Carrier Center, is serving as a clearinghouse for student response efforts. For more information, you may contact serve@etsu.edu