Michelle L. Cook

Seeing the photos, and hearing the stories of the absolute devastation the flooding of the Mississippi River has caused is truly heartbreaking. Being born and raised in St. Louis makes this tragedy hit especially close to home.

To help the Missouri flood victims, the Torrington Fire Department has generously offered to collect and deliver items to families in need.

Any non-perishable goods such as personal care items, clothing, and nonperishable food items are being accepted at the Torrington Fire Department station located at 111 Water Street, Torrington Connecticut.

I am so proud of our community for coming together and recognizing that there are many families in need and want to thank our firefighters for going above and beyond the call of duty. I also want to extend a sincere ‘thank you’ to Reverend Peter Aduba for helping to spearhead this effort.

Over the coming weeks, residents are encouraged to drop off any donations at the fire station, which will be delivered to families in Missouri. The fire department will be working with organization in the hardest hit areas to ensure that items go where they are most needed.

For questions regarding the collection, please contact Union President Jeremy Minard and Firefighter Bryan Parks at fire headquarters at number 860-496-5935.