Vallecito residents are still in the midst of recovery efforts following the October flooding, and while federal emergency funds have been denied for the time being, more local support efforts are stepping up.
The Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado has pledged to match up to $15,000 of the Community Emergency Relief Fund created to gather donations for flood recovery efforts, a news release from the foundation said.
The fund had raised $7,736 as of Thursday and remains open.
While emergency response, debris removal and initial recovery efforts stabilized the Vallecito area, need remains – particularly for residents facing extensive damage to private roads in areas where there is no homeowners association to shoulder the cost.
One of the remaining needs for residents is road repairs north of County Road 501, including Vallecito Valley I and II, Mushroom Lane and Mushroom Drive that were significantly damaged by floodwater.
Funds raised through the La Plata Flood Relief Fund will be used specifically to support critical road restoration and access improvements, helping residents safely remain in their homes and connected to their community.
“Now is a critical moment to give,” the foundation’s release said. “Every dollar donated will be matched up to $15,000, immediately doubling its impact for Vallecito residents still navigating recovery.”
jbowman@durangoherald.com
