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Washington, D.C.— AmeriCorps members from around the country rushed to Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma, to assist in disaster relief efforts following an ice storm that paralyzed the region in early February.
The AmeriCorps*National Civilian Community Corps sent more than 75 members to work with staff of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other AmeriCorps members in responding to the disaster. The teams are based in Kansas City, Mo., Ponca City, Okla., and Enid, Okla.
The St. Louis Safety Corps AmeriCorps members opened an operations center on February 5. By February 15, the center had responded to 250 calls for assistance.
In Ponca City, AmeriCorps members from the Little Dixie Community Action Agency in Hugo, Okla., participating in recovery efforts, while members of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma AmeriCorps efforts is assisting in Enid.
"When disaster strikes anywhere in the country, AmeriCorps members are called on to assist," explained Leslie Lenkowsky, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees AmeriCorps. "Floods, hurricanes, fires, and the September 11 tragedy all resulted in AmeriCorps members doing their part to help with recovery efforts."
AmeriCorps members have been removing debris from streets and houses, including trees that were knocked down during the ice storm. They also have been delivering meals to people who have been shut in their homes by the storm.
AmeriCorps*NCCC is part of AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps*NCCC members serve for 10 months, work on teams, and are based at one of five campuses across the country. They organize community service projects that help meet public safety, education, environmental, and other human needs. After 10 months of service, members receive an education award of $4,725 to help pay for college or to pay student loans. For more information or an application call 1-800-942-2677 or visit AmeriCorps.
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