WASHINGTON — After the weekend flooding that has left Ellicott City, Maryland, in a state of emergency, officials are letting people know how they can help the city and its residents rebuild.
Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman says that, while contractors are offering to donate building materials, it’s too soon for that kind of help — people mostly need food and money at this point. He says that food donations can go to the Community Action Council of Howard County, whose food bank was scheduled to open at 8 a.m. Monday, instead of its usual 1 p.m.
The food bank is at 8920 Route 108, Suite A, in Columbia. It has several associated pantries.
Kittleman says that cash donations should go to the American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake Region, “a group that we know will give to the residents.”
In addition, the Ellicott City Historic District Partnership is taking donations to help the downtown businesses damaged by the flooding.
Preservation Maryland also is taking donations.
The United Way is accepting monetary donations to assist Ellicott City. Go to its website to make a donation.
Jailbreak Brewing Company is hosting a fundraiser on Thursday. The brewery will offer free tours where donations are encouraged and will donate half of all revenue and tips to charities assisting in the recovery efforts.
Whatever you do, says Maryland State Police Superintendent Col. William Pallozzi, stay out of the downtown — many of the streets are still closed down.
Kittleman is confident that help will roll in: “We have a very generous community in Howard County and Ellicott City.”
WTOP’s John Domen contributed to this report.
