SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A warehouse packed with relief supplies for local flood victims is set to open this week.
From clothing and cleaning products to kitchen appliances and mattresses, the inventory inside a San Diego warehouse is steadily growing. The warehouse is located at an undisclosed location.
Overseeing the warehouse is Elizabeth Jurnberg of Global Empowerment Misison (GEM), a global nonprofit on the ground in places like Gaza, Ukraine and Maui after the wildfires.
“I would characterize it as a one-stop hub,” said Jurnberg.
In San Diego, GEM has partnered with several nonprofits - San Diego Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, UMCOR, and Harvey Family Foundation - to open the warehouse, provided by the county.
The items inside the warehouse were supplied by corporate and other partners. Jurnberg said one of the most critical needs now is mold remediation.
“We have protective suits and respirators, among many items in our mold remediation kits,” she said.
Jurnberg said according to the data compiled for them, about half of flood victims need supplies to clean up mold. Some 70 to 80 percent have yet to start the demolition process.
Case managers will be helping match the needs of flood victims with the inventory.
“The needs are different depending on what stage of recovery they are in today,” said Jurnberg. “We have cots, barbecues for cooking food, tents."
The inventory includes everything from from pet supplies to essentials for those still residing in flooded homes.
The hub also has items needed for the last phases of recovery.
“In our final phase, there are air purifiers for allergens, sink, lawnmowers, vacuums,” she said. “We have roofing materials for the rebuild.”
With tens of thousands of items valued at over $1 million, the warehouse plans to open this week and will stay open for at least five months.
Initially reserved for case managers, the warehouse will eventually open up to flood survivors.
“We want to shed some love and care, make sure they know they’re not forgotten … get them back into normalcy … to offer hope,” said Jurnberg.
For those interested in supporting the group’s efforts, the nonprofit said the items they still need include drywall, drywall screws, insulation, and flooring.
Flood survivors seeking case managers can visit Disaster Recovery Centers in Mountain View or Spring Valley. Those unable to visit can call 619-673-8780.
