As Archuleta County continues recovering from devastating flooding, the generosity of individuals, businesses, organizations and neighboring communities has been extraordinary.
Financial assistance and donations of food, water and cleaning supplies will help local families navigate the challenges of damaged homes, disrupted utilities and the loss of everyday necessities.
With significant quantities of donated supplies already received, local flood recovery coordinators are encouraging those wishing to help to consider what is most needed and where donations should be delivered.
Where to deliver flood recovery supplies
Donations of needed supplies for flood recovery efforts may be delivered to the Archuleta County Extension Office at 344 U.S. 84. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thanks to generous contributions, the community has already received substantial quantities of several essential items, including: bottled water, disinfecting wipes, brooms, mops and mop buckets, and chlorine bleach. Additional donations of these items are not needed at this time unless specifically requested.
Those planning to donate large quantities of supplies are encouraged to coordinate in advance with Terri House, donations coordinator for the Town of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County flood recovery efforts, at recovery@pagosasprings.co.gov to ensure there is adequate space and that the items are needed.
Food donations: support local food pantries
Individuals and organizations wishing to donate food are encouraged to direct their contributions to local food pantries.
Healthy Archuleta is helping connect residents with a network of community food pantries serving individuals and families throughout Archuleta County.
The following organizations are part of the local food pantry network:
• Community United Methodist Church: 434 Lewis St., (970) 264-5508.
• Pope John Paul II Catholic Church: 353 S. Pagosa Blvd., (970) 731-5744.
• St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church: 225 South Pagosa Blvd., (970) 731-5801.
• Our Community Eats: 197 Navajo Trail Drive, (970) 902-0130.
• TARA’s Helping Hands: Arboles, (970) 987-5033.
Because flooding may affect operating hours, accessibility and available storage, donors should contact the organizations before delivering food.
For information about the local food pantry network, contact Healthy Archuleta at (401) 206-4579 or visit foodcoalition4archuleta.org.
Used clothing and household items
Donations of used clothing and household items should be directed to the Humane Society Thrift Store or Methodist Thrift Shop.
These organizations are better equipped to receive and handle these types of donations. Donors should check with the stores before dropping off items.
Gift cards for food and gas are welcome
Gift cards for groceries and gasoline are another practical way to help individuals and families affected by flooding.
Many residents are facing unexpected expenses as they work to recover, and gift cards provide flexibility to purchase food and fuel based on their immediate needs.
Gift cards may be dropped off at Town Hall, 551 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, or mailed to:
Town of Pagosa Springs
Attn: Terri House, Flood Recovery Donations
P.O. Box 1859
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Donors are encouraged to identify the dollar amount of each gift card to assist with tracking and distribution.
Monetary donations for flood recovery
Those wishing to make financial contributions are encouraged to support the Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) at https://cfssc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3839 or other local organizations and recovery efforts assisting individuals and families affected by the flooding.
Monetary donations provide flexibility to respond to changing needs as recovery progresses, including expenses that may not be addressed through donated supplies.
Donors are encouraged to contact their preferred organization directly for information about how to contribute and how funds will be used to support flood recovery.
Recovery needs will continue to change
As residents return to their homes and assess damage, the community’s needs will continue to evolve.
Families face challenges involving damaged wells, septic systems, household furnishings, appliances and other essential necessities. Some needs may not become apparent until residents are able to safely return to their properties.
Financial contributions and gift cards are especially useful because they provide flexibility to address changing needs.
“The outpouring of generosity has been remarkable, and we are thankful for every person and organization that wants to help,” said House. “By directing donations to the appropriate locations and focusing on what is needed most, we can make sure that generosity has the greatest possible impact on our neighbors.”
The recovery process will continue long after the floodwaters recede. The community’s generosity and cooperation will play an important role in helping affected families rebuild their lives.
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