Hammond Hardware Rallies Community to Help Flood Victims

As residents of Vinton County, Ohio, begin cleaning up after severe flooding damaged homes, businesses and roads, Hammond Hardware Store in Hamden has become a collection and distribution point for supplies to help families affected by the disaster.

The independent hardware retailer has been collecting donations of cleaning supplies and other necessities and organizing them into cleaning buckets for residents. The store reported that cleaning supplies and food were organized and available for pickup by people affected by the flooding.

“We are in such appreciation, but not surprised, by the generosity of our community,” the retailer posted on Facebook as donations arrived. “These items will be distributed to those that have been affected by the recent floods.”

Other businesses and community organizations have joined the effort. NAPA of McArthur donated buckets for the cleanup kits, while the Wellston Rotary presented Hammond Hardware with a check to support the store’s flood-relief efforts.

“This is what Southeast Ohio is all about—communities coming together to help one another when it’s needed most,” Hammond Hardware posted.

The relief effort follows several days of heavy rain and flooding across Vinton County and other areas of southern Ohio. Floodwaters overtook roads and homes, forced rescues and evacuations and damaged bridges, driveways and other infrastructure. Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain declared a Level 3 emergency Monday as authorities worked to keep residents off flooded and damaged roads.

The National Weather Service reported flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas throughout the region, with numerous roads remaining closed Tuesday as floodwaters continued to affect the county.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine visited Vinton County Tuesday to meet with residents, first responders and local officials before declaring a state of emergency covering Vinton and 18 other Ohio counties affected by recent severe weather and flooding. The declaration directs state agencies to provide personnel, equipment, supplies and other assistance for cleanup and recovery.

As floodwaters recede, Vinton County emergency officials are asking residents to document damage to homes, appliances and other essential property as part of disaster assessments and potential FEMA Individual Assistance efforts.

At Hammond Hardware, the immediate focus remains on getting basic cleanup supplies and food into the hands of neighbors who need them.

The store thanked residents and organizations that have contributed to the effort, writing, “We are truly stronger together.”