PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The city is holding a resource center on Monday in West Philadelphia for those who were affected by the damaging microburst storms earlier this month.
The center is open on Monday, July 20, at the Wynnefield Library on Overbrook Avenue from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
At least four severe microbursts with 70 mph straight-line winds brought down trees and power lines and damaged properties in West and South Philadelphia on July 11.
Various city and state agencies will be at the resource center to help residents and businesses who are recovering from the storms. Two other resource center pop-ups were held over the weekend.
Gwendolyn has lived in the neighborhood for 50 years and said she was happy to hear the city was offering help at the Wynnefield Public Library. She’s on a fixed income and can’t afford the repairs — several trees were ripped up in her backyard.
Sonya and her 9-year-old son echoed that sentiment. They said a tree fell through their roof into their kitchen.
“It’s just a big mess, and I don’t have the funds to fix it,” Sonya said.
People can receive help with replacing important documents or asking insurance questions. They can also get connected with mental health professionals.
Pennsylvania Sen. Vincent Hughes hopes more people will come out. The Office of Emergency Management organized tables from PECO, the Water Department, Share Food Program, and even tree removal services.
“Don’t sit in your suffering. Come out and get help and connect with other people,” Hughes said.
The city declared a disaster emergency following the microbursts and received nearly 1,000 damage reports from residents. State emergency officials will determine whether the city can receive state funds to help cover the costs.
READ MORE: City promises to replace all trees knocked down during microbursts
Monday’s resource center at Wynnefield Library is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monday’s resource center at Wynnefield Library is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
