WVU Medicine, WVU Health Sciences continue to support flood relief efforts
Members of the Mountaineer community have banded together to support those affected by the flooding that occurred last week in some parts of the state, claiming the lives of at least 23 West Virginians. From the outpouring of supplies that are being donated in local communities to the medical response team that is meeting healthcare needs, the Mountaineer spirit is shining brightly in the state.
Earlier this week, WVU Medicine physicians, nurses, and advanced practice providers were recruited to assist in these West Virginia towns: Rainelle, Richwood, and Rupert. Their efforts will continue through the weekend.
“The response for clinical providers to assist in the communities devastated by the flooding has been overwhelming,” said Ron Pellegrino, M.D., chief operating officer, WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals. “While these providers make a difference in our hospitals and clinics every day, their presence in these flood-stricken communities is much needed at this time. They’re there providing hope and reassurance to the men, women, and children who have had their lives turned upside down.
“Our team is assisting local providers and clinics with basic medical care, tetanus immunizations, wound care, and wellness checks in homes,” Dr. Pellegrino continued.
While the immediate danger of the situation is diminishing, WVU continues to remain available and flexible to meet the needs of the communities and organizations that need support, according to William Ramsey, M.D., chief collaboration officer at the WVU Health Sciences Center, who is coordinating the overall WVU medical response operation.
“We are coordinating all of our efforts through the proper channels with state agencies, including the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources Command Center, the State Emergency Operations Center, and the West Virginia National Guard,” Dr. Ramsey said.
“We have filled all of our volunteer slots for the current mission,” he continued. “However, those providers who wish to help with future missions can contact WVU Medicine Incident Command.”
Physicians, nurses, and advanced practice providers can reach Incident Command at 304-285-7090.
Faculty, staff, and students at the WVU Health Sciences Center, at both the Morgantown and Charleston divisions, are working closely with WVU Medicine and the University to help.
Essential items continue to be collected for flood victims. WVU hosted collections at several Morgantown locations over the weekend, and that effort is continuing this week. Learn more about the collection and other ways to help.
WVU Medicine Rosenbaum Family House is serving as a drop-off location and will accept items from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and tomorrow (June 29-30) and from 6 a.m. to noon on Friday (July 1).
The following items are being collected: cleaning supplies (especially bleach), scrub brushes, mops, brooms, buckets, work gloves, long rubber gloves, baby supplies (wipes, food, diapers, formula, sippy cups), toiletries, contact solution and cases, handheld can openers (new or gently used), bug spray, itch cream, paper products (plates, bowls, flatware, paper towels, toilet paper), bottled water, and non-perishable food (especially ready-to-eat items, such as granola bars, beef jerky, pudding, and fruit cups).
Items not included on this list, including clothing and textiles, will not be accepted.
Similar items are also being collected by the West Virginia Black Bears at Gate A and Gate C at the Monongalia County Ballpark before home games July 1-3.
For those who want to make a monetary donation, the Dollars for Disaster West Virginia Flood Relief project is working with American Red Cross – West Virginia and West Virginia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to accept contributions.
Checks are also being accepted by mail:
WV VOAD Disaster Relief Fund
815 Alderson St.
Williamson, WV 25661