As Archuleta County moves from immediate disaster response into long-term flood recovery, the Disaster Assistance Center (DAC) in Pagosa Springs closed Wednesday, Nov. 11. Plans are underway to open a new Recovery Assistance Center (RAC) next week at the Parish Hall on Lewis Street in downtown Pagosa Springs. Dates and times to be announced.
Cleaning supplies and water will remain available at the Archuleta County MET Building, 83 Harman Park Drive, from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, and Friday, Nov. 13. Residents can enter through the lobby for assistance. Additional distribution hours will be announced.
Since opening Thursday, Nov. 5, the DAC has served as a central location for residents affected by the recent flooding to connect with emergency assistance, recovery resources and community support.
The center has brought together local, regional and state agencies, nonprofit organizations and volunteers working collaboratively to help residents navigate the challenges following the disaster. Participating organizations have included Archuleta County Public Health, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, Colorado Baptist Disaster Relief, and the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
Additional recovery information has been available through resources from United Policyholders, the Colorado Division of Insurance, Crisis Cleanup, Our Front Porch, and the 211/Airbnb temporary lodging assistance program, among others.
As immediate emergency needs shift toward longer-term recovery, the new RAC will focus on helping residents rebuild their homes and continue to support and navigate this as a community. The center will provide access to essential items, including furniture, cleaning supplies and other materials needed by households affected by the flooding.
Local nonprofit organizations, community partners and state agencies, including the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), are collaborating to establish the center and coordinate sustained assistance in the weeks ahead.
"This center will continue to provide resources to our community for several weeks to come," said Ashley Wilson, executive director of the Archuleta County Public Health Department. "We know that full recovery is not something we accomplish quickly and are working to support the community past the first few weeks."
While the DAC is closing, the transition to a RAC reflects an ongoing commitment to supporting residents through the rebuilding process.
An official opening date for the center will be announced soon. Additional information regarding operating hours, available supplies, volunteer opportunities and how residents can access assistance will be shared as details are finalized.
Residents are encouraged to follow the Archuleta County Public Health Department Facebook and Instagram for more details. The department office is also open for further questions and assistance, (970) 264-2409, 502 S. 8th St.
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