Summary from Executive Board

On May 13, 2025, severe flooding struck Western Maryland’s Georges Creek Valley following intense rainfall, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and community facilities. Floodwaters rose rapidly, trapping residents in homes, businesses, and schools and necessitating multiple rescues. In the aftermath, extensive debris and mud covered much of the valley. Many homes sustained significant damage, particularly to basements and first floors. Because furnaces and hot water systems were commonly located in basements, numerous households were left without heat heading into the winter season.

In response, and with the support of Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD), the Western Maryland Long Term Recovery Committee (WMLTRC) was established in September 2025. The Committee’s mission is to coordinate funding and assistance from faith-based, secular, and government partners to support flood-affected households. Its primary focus is construction-related recovery, including debris removal, furnace replacement, and the repair of flood-damaged drywall and insulation, with the goal of restoring homes to safe, sanitary, and secure living conditions. WMLTRC is dedicated to long-term recovery and anticipates operating for approximately three years.

The Committee’s process involves identifying owner-occupied households impacted by the flood and assigning each a caseworker to assess needs and coordinate referrals for supportive services, including faith-based, medical, and behavioral health resources. When construction needs are identified, a construction manager evaluates the damage, prepares cost estimates, and presents the project to an Unmet Needs Committee for funding determination. Once approved, materials are procured and volunteer labor coordinated, with licensed professionals engaged for specialized work such as HVAC or electrical repairs.

To date, preliminary assessments have identified approximately 460 households requiring assistance, including 163 with critical heating needs. While WMLTRC continues to build capacity, establish operations, and hire paid staff to support its volunteer workforce, ensuring access to heat remains the immediate priority. As the Committee pursues 501(c)(3) status, it is currently operating in partnership with Maryland VOAD and the Potomac Highlands United Way as fiscal sponsors. Donation campaigns are underway to secure the resources necessary to address unmet recovery needs across the Georges Creek Valley.