Whitley County community helps flood victims

WHITLEY COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) — High water might be receding in Whitley County for now but more rain is on the way.

The community’s rallying together to help anyone already affected by the devastation and what’s still to come.

This flood is being called the worst Whitley County has seen since 1977.

“That’s been devastating,” says Pastor Keith Becker.

Emergency Manager Danny Moses says several families have been forced out of their homes and needed rescuing from cars and buildings.

“It’s been very emotional this is one of the most impacting floods that I’ve been a part of,” says Becker.

The flooding has left barely anyone untouched.

“I can’t imagine the disruption that goes on in your life when you lose either all of what you have or a lot of the things that you have,” says Pastor Ande Myers of First Baptist Church.

So the Williamsburg community is doing what it can to help.

First Baptist Church has partnered with Sutton’s Kwik Wash to allow families in need to come and use the laundromat free of charge.

Community members have even donated detergent.

“Several of our members have just been moved. A lot of people in our community are hurting and just wanted to find a way that we could help our neighbors and care for them,” says Myers.

And Cedaridge Ministries is offering clothing, food, hygiene products, and even a place to stay.

“And also groups coming in. Disaster relief will be coming in and they’ll be staying here cause we can house a little over 200 people,” says Becker.

Moses says about five more inches of rain are expected Wednesday and he’s preparing for a flash flood watch.

Local churches, businesses, and community members are also getting ready to help those who can’t help themselves.

“Sometimes bad things bring about the best in people. A lot of time people have it in them they just need the opportunity,” says Becker.

People we spoke to say the outpouring of help is overwhelming and they’re lucky to live in a place like Williamsburg.

“There’s a difference when somebody just does something and they just go home but this is like ‘we want to do this but what else can we do’.” says Myers.

If you would like to help Cedaridge Ministries, click here.

If you would like to help First Baptist Church, click here.