FAYETTEVILLE – From now through Nov. 4, Hearts & Hands Disaster Recovery Information Tecnology Disaster Resource Center, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Mormon Helping Hands and other relief agencies are staffing a free multi-agency hotline for debris removal and home cleanup after Hurricane Matthew.

This hotline will connect survivors with reputable and vetted relief agencies that will assist in mud-outs, debris removal, and cleaning up homes, as they are able. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need.

“Voluntary relief agencies play a vital role in whole community recovery. The police and fire departments are there for emergencies, but they don’t have the time or resources to clean out homes. This partnership helps connect survivors with local relief agencies working in the area,” said Joe Hillis, director of the center whose volunteers are staffing the hotlines.

“We are offering this service through Nov. 4 to help facilitate rapid solutions by the various aid agencies standing by to assist those affected by the floods,” said Jula Benson, resource and volunteer manager for Hearts & Hands Disaster Recovery. “This hotline will alert multiple relief agencies that survivors need help. All services are free and performed by vetted and reputable relief agencies and members of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. Response times will vary so we ask residents their patience while the teams receive and organize their response to help.”

This hotline cannot assist with social services such as food, clothing, shelter, insurance, or questions about FEMA registration. For access to other community resources, survivors should call 2-1-1.

Survivors needing assistance with home cleanup may call: 1-800-451-1954 until Nov. 4.

Staff Report

Call 1-800-451-1954 for free help from local relief agencies after Hurricane Matthew