ToolBank Disaster Services to aid in TN flood clean up efforts
Atlanta, GA (August 26, 2021) – ToolBank Disaster Services (TDS) has deployed our 24’ foot trailer outfitted with tools to assist in the cleanup efforts following the devastating flooding in Waverly, TN. Some areas in Tennessee saw almost a quarter of their average annual rainfall in only a few hours over the weekend. At least 21 people are confirmed dead, and dozens are still missing as residents and local officials continue to assess the damage.
Team Rubicon and TDS will be working collaboratively on the ground to aid in the cleanup of over 100 homes while working alongside Mercy Management. Trey Bearden, ToolBank USA’s Chief Programs Officer, will be conducting the initial outreach and needs assessment to determine next steps and length of deployment. Bill Hess, TDS Program Manager, will be joining the efforts in Tennessee upon his return from Los Angeles where he is working with The Mission Continues on their Beyond 9/11: Operation Enduring Service campaign. TDS is scheduled to be in Waverly, TN through September 10 but that could change after determining ongoing needs and tools.
Thank you to our Partners
ToolBank USA would like to thank our national partners: UPS, Stanley Black & Decker, The Home Depot Foundation, and Ford. Airbnb has also kindly contributed funding for housing accommodations during our TDS deployment operations. Without their continued financial and in-kind support, ToolBank Disaster Services would not be able to assist in these types of disaster relief and rebuild efforts.
Additional updates will follow over the next few days regarding our efforts in Tennessee.
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ToolBank USA is a national nonprofit organization charged with the replication and advancement of ToolBanks across the country. ToolBank USA facilitates a significant portion of the ‘back room’ administration for its affiliates, to allow local ToolBank staff to focus on customer service and program excellence. ToolBank USA uses the power of the strong and growing national ToolBank brand to leverage resources for its affiliates, and is the official knowledge base of the ToolBank, collecting and sharing best practices from around the ToolBank network.
Media Contact:
Trey Bearden
ToolBank USA | Chief Program Officer
Email: trey.bearden@toolbank.org