Key Takeaways:
- Volunteers are providing crucial assistance to homeowners in the San Bernardino mountains affected by the recent storm
- Team Rubicon is leading the effort to help with debris removal and cleanup
- The volunteers’ help is a lifeline for many homeowners, including 78-year-old Mike Dodgin, who lost almost everything in the flood
- The storm caused significant damage, with entire homes being flooded and destroyed
- The community is coming together to support those in need, with volunteers putting in countless hours to help with the recovery efforts
Introduction to the Crisis
The recent storm in the San Bernardino mountains has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with many homeowners struggling to come to terms with the extent of the damage. The storm, which hit on Christmas Eve, caused widespread flooding and destruction, leaving many without access to basic necessities. In the aftermath of the disaster, a group of volunteers has stepped up to help those in need, providing crucial assistance to homeowners who are struggling to recover. Without the help of these good Samaritans, many homeowners would be left to fend for themselves, with no clear idea of how to begin the long and difficult process of recovery.
The Impact on Homeowners
For 78-year-old Mike Dodgin, the storm was a devastating blow. His home in Piñon Hills was flooded, with the waters sweeping through the property and destroying almost everything in their path. "All of Sheep Creek from Wrightwood came through this property," Dodgin said, describing the extent of the damage. The only item that was saved was a mattress, with everything else being lost in the flood. The thought of recovering from such a disaster would be overwhelming for anyone, but for Dodgin, it was almost too much to bear. That was until a group of volunteers from Team Rubicon arrived at his doorstep, offering to help with the cleanup and debris removal.
The Role of Team Rubicon
Team Rubicon is a non-profit organization that specializes in providing disaster relief and recovery services. The group is made up of volunteers who are dedicated to helping communities in need, and they have been instrumental in the recovery efforts in the San Bernardino mountains. According to Will Chiaffino, a member of Team Rubicon, the group’s mission is to provide assistance to communities affected by disasters. "We have a group of volunteers that will come out to assist communities in these situations," Chiaffino said. "These disasters can be pretty overwhelming." Team Rubicon’s volunteers are trained to handle a wide range of tasks, from debris removal to mold remediation, and they are equipped with the necessary skills and equipment to get the job done.
The Recovery Efforts
The recovery efforts in the San Bernardino mountains are ongoing, with volunteers working tirelessly to help homeowners like Dodgin get back on their feet. The process is slow and laborious, with each home requiring a significant amount of work to repair and restore. At Dodgin’s home, the volunteers from Team Rubicon are working to remove load after load of mud and debris, a task that is essential before the difficult work of tearing out soaked walls can even begin. It’s a daunting task, but with the help of the volunteers, Dodgin is finally starting to see a glimmer of hope. The support of the community has been overwhelming, with neighbors and strangers alike coming together to help those in need.
The Importance of Community Support
The response to the disaster in the San Bernardino mountains is a testament to the power of community support. In the face of adversity, the community has come together to help those in need, providing a lifeline to homeowners who are struggling to recover. The volunteers who are working tirelessly to help with the recovery efforts are a shining example of the kindness and generosity of the human spirit. For Dodgin, the support of the community has been a game-changer, providing him with the help and hope he needs to rebuild his life. As the recovery efforts continue, it’s clear that the community will play a vital role in the healing process, providing a sense of comfort and support to those who have been affected by the disaster.