Adopt a Borough Program Helps Flood Victims | News

The September flooding wreaked havoc in Wyoming County so one borough in Wayne County is aiding in the recovery.

Raging waters damaged homes and businesses in and around Tunkhannock and all the devastation had people from around the area reaching out.

The borough of Honesdale in Wayne County did not have much storm damage. Signs went up at the borough building advertising a donation drive for the first adopt-a-borough program to help flood ravaged communities.

"It's a brainchild of our councilman David Borthwick, and he simply felt compelled to reach out and try to help a neighboring town and community that was stricken with the flood damage," said Honesdale Mayor Jonathan Fritz.

"We especially want to get items in for children. They really are the people who are having a hard time getting their heads around this so we're looking for clothing, non-perishables. Just think of yourself, if you had experienced a flood and a loss, what items do you need, what items are critical and that's the items that we want to be able to send their way," added Fritz.

Across the Route 6 corridor and 45 miles away, Tunkhannock borough in Wyoming County was chosen at random as the adoptee as businesses and residents were still cleaning up.

"I was there personally, and the portion that really sticks out with me and will stay with me the longest is the smell. That's a distinct smell when the river overflows and picks up all the different oils or garbage and brings them along. So it really is a disaster zone and we want to be able to reach out and help them," said Fritz.

"We're helping people a lot, but this time, Tunkhannock needed a bit of help, and Honesdale's really coming through for us and we really appreciate that," said Tunkhannock mayor Norm Ball.

Some Honesdale residents liked the idea of lending a helping hand to their adopted borough.

"I guess they'll get it eventually from FEMA and all those places, but I'm sure anything is a help right now, because they need it immediately," said Jean Bergstresser of Honesdale.

Kim Conklin did get some water in her Honesdale home, but said people helping people is a good idea.

"As far as people wanting to help, I think it's a great thing. If I could do it I would, but I've got problems of my own. My basement's flooded and we're still cleaning that up," Conklin said.

Tunkhannock officials said several organizations will make sure the donations will benefit people throughout Wyoming.

"The intent is to help the needy, and that's what we intend to do," said Stacy Huber, Tunkhannock borough council president.

Donations can be dropped off Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Honesdale borough building. On Saturday, the items collected will be taken to Tunkhannock for distribution.

Organizers in Honesdale hope their actions will lead to similar ideas and projects in neighboring communities.