Long Term Recovery Committee reports roughly $1 million raised, dozens of housing repairs underway

Roger Bennett, speaking for the Western Maryland Long Term Recovery Committee, briefed commissioners on the group’s work since last summer’s disaster.

Bennett said the committee organized with local volunteers and national VOAD partners and established itself as a 501(c)(3) to accept donations and grant money. He said the committee has raised “a little over $1,000,000” and is using those funds for about 20 active construction projects and 40 additional projects planned over the next year. That money, Bennett said, also funded or installed more than 90 furnaces and supported volunteer construction teams currently working in Western Port.

Bennett thanked local leaders and named the committee’s volunteer leadership (president Chuck Tranet, vice president Tom Morgan, treasurer Tyler Rains and secretary Laura Freeman). He emphasized the committee is not drawing county funds but is using donations, grants and a trust fund established with the county to do individual assistance and repairs.

Commissioners thanked Bennett and staff for their work and noted the committee’s role filling gaps not covered by federal, state or county recovery budgets.