Meeting summary for MSVOAD Collaboration Meeting (04/08/2025)
Quick recap
The meeting covered updates on recent storms and their impact across various counties, with reports from FEMA, local organizations, and humanitarian aid groups detailing their response efforts and assistance provided to affected communities. Discussions included damage assessments, resource distribution, and coordination between different agencies to address unmet needs. The group also addressed logistical matters such as meeting schedules and information sharing, emphasizing the importance of accurate data and effective communication among partners.
Next steps
• Mavis to send Gerald a report on the temporary housing needs in Covington County.
• Ray to finalize setup of twice-weekly mobile and site distributions for disaster relief supplies.
• Tony to visit the Goodness Project warehouse and coordinate with his executive director to arrange transportation of donated items to Leflore County.
• Gerald to send Meredith a new meeting invite link.
• Gerald to send Lillie the latest MEMA tote board upon her request.
• VOAD members to continue monitoring for unmet needs and report back to the group.
• VOAD to discuss adjusting meeting time at the next meeting to accommodate field workers.
Summary
Becky Joins Ground Force Humanitarian Aid
Gerald and Susan had a brief conversation before Becky joined, who introduced herself as the contact for Ground Force Humanitarian Aid. Gerald confirmed that Becky would be the main point of contact for the organization and asked her to add her information to the chat for future reference. The meeting was scheduled for May 1st for the VOAD members, and Gerald ensured that Becky would be included in the invite list.
Storms and FEMA Updates Discussed
In the meeting, Gerald welcomed everyone and discussed the recent storms that hit the state. He mentioned that they are still waiting on reports and damage assessments. He also asked those in the field to provide updates on their locations and activities. Chris from FEMA reported that a major declaration request for 14 counties was in process and they were awaiting a response. Barbara expressed concern about the timing of the meetings, suggesting a later time and possibly more frequent meetings depending on the storm assessments.
Mavis Reports on Storm Relief Efforts
In the meeting, Mavis reported on the assistance provided to the Stringer community in Jones County, including feeding, temporary housing, and debris removal. She mentioned that the community was working with other churches to provide aid. Mavis also noted a request for additional hotel stays from some families affected by the recent storms, which she sent to various partners. She promised to send a detailed report to Gerald. Lillie, representing Adventist Community Services, was present but did not provide a detailed update.
Lafleur County Storm Relief Efforts
Ray reported that the Lafleur County area is being serviced by Lilly West and her team, who are distributing emergency boxes and water. Ray is working with them to set up mobile and site distributions twice a week. Ray also mentioned that they have received an 18-wheeler load of supplies and are building disaster kits. Ray is partnering with the Urban League and Koji in Walthall County to meet the needs of affected people. Ida reported that they are working with the Urban League and will be delivering supplies to Jefferson Davis and Lafleur County. Tony from Catholic Charities reported that they are in talks with the Goodness Project to donate or sell necessary items to those affected by the storms. Annelle provided situational awareness, and Frank Newell joined the meeting.
Assessment Updates and Damage Reports
Gerald and Meredith discussed updates on assessments and damage reports from various counties. Meredith mentioned that Sylvia would be conducting validations in Jasper, and they were in contact with Hines, Forest, Jones, and Jackson counties. They also discussed reports from Marshall and Tate counties, with 51 homes affected in Marshall. Gerald assured that they were ready to assist and would be informed of any unmet needs. Lillie inquired about obtaining statistics from the MEMA website and was advised to contact local EMA directors.
Weekly Meetings for Operational Updates
Gerald shared that he sends operational summaries to the Mississippi VOAD Board of Directors and offered to send the latest copy to Lillie upon request. Lillie expressed the need for accurate information to respond effectively. Gerald clarified that the operational summary is an estimate and not validated. He also mentioned that they have teams and VOAD partners ready to assist, but they need to know where to go and what help is needed. The conversation ended with the decision to continue having weekly meetings at 2 PM unless there’s a need to increase the frequency.
Rescheduling Meeting for Barbara’s Team
In the meeting, Annelle and Gerald discussed the possibility of rescheduling a meeting to accommodate Barbara’s team, who couldn’t attend the previous one. They agreed to bring up the topic again the following week. Gerald also mentioned that the frequency and timing of future meetings would depend on the situation and feedback from Mima. Annelle suggested a compromise of having one meeting a week at a later time. Gerald agreed to be flexible and accommodate everyone’s needs.
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