We have lived amongst the good people of St. Maries for the last 23 years and have enjoyed our time here greatly. We really like the way this town pulls together in times of need.
The flood of 1996 was one of those times. It really brought this community together in many ways. Equipment was donated to help in the recovery efforts, rooms were offered to the homeless, and much more. Everyone chipped in where ever they could to help. The town water supply was fouled and it was very difficult or expensive to get clean water for the necessities of life without boiling it first. With the help of my family, we loaded up a 300 gallon tank with fresh water from our well in the mountains and delivered it to those that requested it, filling as many containers as the resident could find. What a fulfilling service this turned out to be.
During the flood, my wife also worked with the Red Cross handing out household items and clean-up kits. These were essential in getting people back in their homes as the water receeded. The people she meet were very grateful and nice to visit with.
In our first few years here, we had to rely on the Christmas baskets that are given out by the Elks each year, and the food bank. We also delivered these baskets to residents as a way to give back to others. Over the years, we have raffled items at the craft fairs to raise money for items to include in the Christmas baskets as well. What a great feeling it is to be able to give back to those that have been there for us in the past.
We have always felt a deep attachment to the community and will continue to help out when ever we can. Our hope is that this site can help others come together in aiding those that are having trouble getting through un-expected events that have happened.
this section will contain a list of local residents or agencies that are involve with helping in the recovery.)