23-05-2025
Somerset County residents visit resource center to find relief from flood damage
MEYERSDALE, Pa. (WTAJ) — Somerset County residents visited the Meyersdale Volunteer Fire Department to learn about resources from state agencies for flood damage relief.
The social hall turned multi-agency resource center (MARC) had multiple state departments providing options to help residents who have dealt with flooded basements and soaked lawns. Spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, along with help from the Somerset County EMA, residents found some answers for the costly cleanup that can take weeks.
'It allows them to come in, ask those questions from our state insurance department, from PEMA and from other agencies that can help them maybe get back on their feet and begin the recovery process,' Larry West, the Deputy Director of PEMA, said.
Some residents wanted to get an assessment of the damage they had on their property. Resident Sue Polenski had nearly eight inches of water in her basement, along with parts of her backyard fence pried out of the ground and off the backer rails.
'I'm just hoping that being single, I can find somebody who can help me to get rid of this debris and perhaps repair my fence for me,' Polenski said. 'I'd be very happy.'
The center is also waiting for loans from the Small Business Administration after Gov. Josh Shapiro announced a request for them to help Somerset County. While the loans are yet to be approved, nonprofit organizations stepped in to provide the area with immediate essentials.
'Whether it's clothing and needs or food, whatever might be, they do a tremendous job, within these communities, to get those folks back up on their feet,' West added.
West also applauded the effort made by both the community and the county EMA when the flood waters rushed into town last week.
'Somerset County has really done a great job there,' West said. 'The EMA and the county commissioners have done a great job organizing this MARC here.'
'Everybody's rallying together and helping each other and everybody's friendly and kind to each other,' Poleski added. 'And that's what we need more of all this time.'
The center, located at 202 Main St. in Meyersdale, is open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
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