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Community raises $15,000 for Portland residents

Posted at 9:05 AM, Feb 22, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-22 09:32:26-05

PORTLAND, Mich. — People living and working along the Grand River in Portland are slowly reclaiming their lives after the devastating flood waters forced dozens to evacuate their homes and businesses.

Portland resident Kimberly Hinds says water is still standing to the ceiling in her basement and she doesn't know when she'll be able to pump it out.

“The big thing I guess is where do you start with the clean-up”, Hinds said.

The flood has been a great financial set-back and just the thought of her troubles can bring the grandmother to tears.

“I'm thankful that I have family”, Hinds explained.

“I have a daughter so I'm spending time with my grand-children which helps take my mind off of everything.”

But she is not alone.

Dozens of families are devastated, so the Portland Community Fund stepped-in.

The group has raised thousands-of -dollars to be an immediate source of help for so many in need.

“We've fundraised approximately $15,000 since this has all happened within the two weeks and we've given out about 20 application grants, $500 each”, said Portland Community Fund President Evelyn Walkington- Jensen.

Hinds is a recipient of the grant.

She says it is very comforting to know she has a helping hand to hold on to through one of the greatest challenges of her life.

“It's wonderful because you don't feel isolated and alone”, Hinds said.

“You know there are a lot of people who are going through this.”

The next community fundraiser is March 1st at the VFW in Portland.