For most of us, Hurricane Irene is a memory.
For others, wind and flood damage left by the storm remain a part of everyday life.
Unfortunately, this truth is well illustrated in Aurora.
Dozens of Aurora residents still need help cleaning up and rebuilding their homes, churches and businesses.
State, local and federal government can’t fix all the town’s problems.
Volunteers are needed to work there, and they’re needed now.
Local Methodist volunteers have on their books a lengthy list of people who need help getting their homes back in decent shape.
Local aid organizations can direct people to broader resources, but the people of Aurora know where the needs are.
The number for the Aurora Town Hall is 252-322-4611.
We know of at least one example of an Aurora group seeking outside assistance.
Members of Deliverance Temple Church of God in Christ need plenty of hands to aid in rebuilding their flooded church — if they’re able to do so.
The Rev. Jimmy Boyd, pastor, may be reached at 252-633-0248.
Another possible source for information about Beaufort County’s ongoing, post-storm needs is the Greater Pamlico Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, which responded to calls to action in the days immediately following the storm.
The chapter’s number is 252-946-4110.
One other good well of information is the Washington-based corps of the Salvation Army, which responded alongside the Red Cross. The corps offices may be reached by calling 252-946-2523.
Irene is a memory, but the storm’s destruction lingers.
It’s up to us, as a community, to help our neighbors rebuild.