You can make a difference in lives

The water has receded and for good we hope, this year, but there are a lot of people hurting in many ways following the epic flash flood we experienced Aug. 2 in and around Custer City. Red Cross executive director Richard Smith and his team from Rapid City have identified at least 16 families in need of immediate financial assistance after they suffered terrible losses and damage.

An ad hoc committee has been formed and a Custer Flood Relief account set up at First Interstate Bank in Custer. About 20 donation jars were set up all around town last week. The Red Cross is offering invaluable advice and assistance in helping to raise money and organize a huge benefit event for severely impacted flood victims. 

A community fundraiser for Custer Flood Relief is set for this Saturday, Aug. 17, at The Custer Beacon. Donations are being solicited and volunteers recruited for a freewill donation meal starting at 5 p.m. There will be a cornhole tourney starting at 1 p.m. to be followed by entertainment in the afternoon and evening. Money raised at this event and from donation jars placed around the community will be used locally to help these families get back on their feet. Sizeable donations from a local church and club have already been made, with others certainly to follow. This community tends to rally around those in need and we are sure it will do so again this Saturday. 

Those out of the area may mail a donation to Custer Flood Relief, c/o First Interstate Bank, 648 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Custer SD 57747. We’ll see you there!