AVONDALE, P.A. (KYW Newsradio) — The American Red Cross gave shelter to 44 people at the Garage Community Youth Center in Avondale on Thursday when an entire apartment complex nearby had to be evacuated due to flooding.
Chester County is one of 21 counties across the state subject to a disaster declaration by Governor Josh Shapiro in response to heavy rains that battered the region as remnants of Tropical Storm Debby passed through.
Shapiro said the declaration will cut the red tape, and allow the state to help when assistance is requested. In total, $2 million is available for emergency use.
Neighbors of the apartment complex in Avondale told NBC10 that water rescues were initially made by first responders.
“Move all the cars, we got people evacuated. Did mostly what we could to get everybody safe, but there were still people trapped behind the apartments,” said on neighbor. “The blue house was pretty bad. They had to take them out on rescue boats.”
At the youth center, Alana Mauger with the American Red Cross said all the necessities were there for those seeking shelter.
“Snacks, water and then comfort items, like shower kits with toothpaste and toothbrushes and soap. All kinds of things that you need for your personal hygiene and we’re also providing emotional support through our disaster mental health team,” said Mauger.
As of Saturday, she said some residents have been able to return to live in the apartment complex after approval by Licenses and Inspections, but not those who lived on the first floor.
“There was up to two feet of water in some areas. That water has been drained and it’s currently being cleaned,” she said.