FEMA representatives going door-to-door in McMechen

Several teams of FEMA workers took to the streets of McMechen Thursday morning, going door-to-door to speak with families, many of whom are still scraping mud out of basements and working to replace services such as air conditioning. A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is currently operating out of the gym of the former Bishop Donahue High School, where victims are asked to come and receive help in registering with FEMA and associated services, including the U.S. Small Business Administration, which offers loan services to homeowners and business owners.

In McMechen, several residents said they were grateful for the outpouring of support they’ve received from FEMA and other services. Larry Lynch, who lives on 21st Street — one of the hardest-hit streets in the city — said FEMA’s assistance was very helpful in securing an updated identification card, which enabled him to receive further assistance. While Lynch had a driver’s license, it was not current.

“It’s strange. After all this, the only thing I needed to get the help was a little plastic card,” he said.

Although the financial assistance will help Lynch get back on his feet, he said getting over the sentimental value of what was lost will take more time. A railroad hobbyist, Lynch lost dozens of models, books and other train-related paraphernalia, which he said he’s still picking out of the mud in his yard.

“I lost a lot of fairly expensive stuff. I’m a railroad fan, and I was able to save most of my pictures, but I lost all my negatives,” he said. “A lot of good books and artifacts from the railroad — things you can’t replace. They’re just not around anymore. That’s the only thing I regret. I had them stored in what I thought were waterproof containers in the basement … and there it goes, floating by, empty.”

Lynch’s brother, he said, continues to dredge mud from his basement.

The help of the relief workers, another resident said, came as a great relief to the people of McMechen.

“The Samaritan’s Purse were the best that came through. They were kind, they made you feel like the victim that you are,” said Victoria Coffield. “They had a heart, they cared, they treated you like (they) should.”

FEMA workers carried tablets to follow up with those already registered, and assisted with registering those who hadn’t yet gotten a chance to, while also coordinating inspections and assessing the losses of those with whom they spoke. The workers said their task was difficult, but extremely fulfilling.

“It’s rewarding, because you can actually see the help that’s given,” said Kathy Cruso. “We’re here for so long, we can see the survivors getting the help they need.”

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey devastating many parts of Texas and other southern states, FEMA spokesman Thomas Kempton said many people may feel apprehensive about accepting help when they may feel that money may be better spent elsewhere. However, Kempton encourages anyone affected by the July flooding in the area to visit the disaster recovery center.

“You’re not taking (money) away from else, because it’s nationwide,” Kempton said. “There are other agencies and volunteer organizations that can assist them also. If they come in and talk to people, we have mitigation people here, specialists who can help prevent the same damage in the future.”