Dear Friends,

The flood waters along the Rancocas Creek have gone down significantly, but they are still well above the peak level of any past flood. Here is a quick update on the status of the situation and some more information on how you can help.

Flood Update

As of Wednesday night, the homes in Tom Brown Meadow, along Point Street and some along Church Street were still under water.

The bridge on Main Street has been inspected and appears to be structural sound. However, the bridge on Bridge Road is gone. It will have to be replaced, so expect Bridge Road to be closed except to local traffic for some time.

The township expects to allow residents of homes not still underwater or structurally damaged back into their homes today to get personal belongs out and take pictures of the damage. All the residents have been told to completely document the damage with pictures. Wal-Mart has donated a large number of disposable cameras for this effort. Residents will not be permitted to re-occupy their homes until the home is inspected and a Certificate of Occupation is granted. The township will be augmenting the building inspection team with professionals from other towns to get it done as quickly as possible.

The areas that have been flooded are being blocked off and secured by the National Guard. Residents in the area are being issued special identification cards so that they will be allowed into their homes.

Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you to the 100 or so people who responded to my appeal for volunteers. Your name and phone number has been passed onto to the township staff members who are coordinating the volunteer efforts. You can probably expect a phone call in the next day or so. If you have not volunteered yet and would like to, please click here and fill in the form.

There are a few areas where specific types of donations have been requested.

Cleaning Supplies: The township is accepting donations of any type of cleaning supplies, rubber gloves, rubber boots, shovels, and other basic tools that can be used for cleaning and clearing debris. These donations can be dropped off at the municipal building by the community room.

Clothing Drive: The Lumberton PTA will be holding a clothing/ household drive for the flood victims. Items may be dropped off on Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ashbrook School located on Municipal Drive. All items must be new or washed. Please label items by size. Any household items must also be clean. The following items are being accepted.

• Gift cards
• clothing for men, woman and children
• Baby items including diapers
• Small appliances
• Lines and towels
• Household items
• Cleaning supplies
• Personal hygiene products
• New toys

Sincerely,