WAVY – VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A family is asking for donations from the public as they work to provide disaster relief to flood victims in West Virginia.
Communities in the southeastern part of West Virginia continued cleaning up Sunday after severe thunderstorms and extreme flooding that started Thursday.
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Officials say at least 24 people have died after 10 inches of rain fell in one day.
The high water brings back memories of the deadly 1985 flood for Kathryn Tipton and Katina Cochran, who were both born in West Virginia and now live in Hampton Roads. They say five of their families members died in the storms more than three decades ago.
"Water can not be stopped. You cannot stop it. When it gets rolling, it's going to take anything in its path," said Tipton. "Looking down on the little town and you see a house hit a bridge and take it out. You're like, ‘that is someone's home that just went. Is mine going to be next?
In response to the recent flood, the two women started collecting items that they plan to deliver to West Virginia later this week. They say they'll work to get donations throughout the week and rent a box truck if they get enough support from the community.
"They've lost their food, their homes, their clothing, every bare necessity they have," said Cochran. "It doesn't matter how small. If you think it's a minuscule amount, to somebody who doesn't have anything it's immeasurable."
Cochran is collecting everything, to include but not limited to food, water, clothes, shoes, shampoo, toothpaste, diapers and household supplies.
Those who wish to get in contact with the family to donate items or money can call Tommy Cochran at (757) 447-8406. He can also be reached by email atgr8driver1974@gmail.com.
Click here to view the family's online fundraising page.