Delaware unites to help victims of Hurricane Harvey

With Houston and surrounding communities still reeling from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey, a Middletown clergyman is rallying dozens of nonprofits, faith communities, community leaders and volunteers around a statewide relief effort.

Operation Fill That Truck For Texas has identified a list of relief supplies and secured eight drop-off sites in all three counties. On Sunday, Oct. 22, volunteers will load supplies into a tractor-trailer and send them off to Houston.

“A natural disaster has a way of uniting us together through faith, love and compassion for those in need,” said Bishop Jeffery Broughton Sr. of Living Grace Worship Cathedral. “It is our responsibility to provide as much help and resources to those that are in need."

Sen. Stephanie Hansen, D-Middletown, said she was moved by the effort to unite for those in need. “I invite leaders across Delaware—Democrats and Republicans alike—to join us.” More than a dozen churches and faith groups, four state agencies, 11 area businesses and seven community groups are all supporting the campaign.

Donations needed include the following: Toiletries, hygiene products, diapers, pull-ups, baby wipes, new undergarments for children and plus-size adults, water, nonperishable food, school supplies, cleaning supplies and monetary donations.

Designated drop-off locations include First State Community Action at 308 N. Railroad Ave. in Georgetown; Ecclesia Family Worship Center at 1221 S. Governors Ave. in Dover; and Delaware State University at 1200 N. DuPont Highway in Dover. Numerous other sites have also been designated. For information, call Broughton at 302-285-9754 or email contactoperationdelaware2017@gmail.com.