Thousands are still without power after Tuesday’s ice storm. While crews continue working to get the lights back on, some storm victims are staying in shelters. A camp in Van Buren County has opened its doors to those in need.
With 1200 people without power and 300 people without water in Van Buren County, the Woodman Youth Camp, which is located a few miles outside of Clinton, has become a temporary home. The camp is offering hot meals, hot showers, and a warm place to sleep for those that need it.
“I’m not happy,” said Lu Jentsch, who lost power in her Shirley home. “There’s no place like home”
For how, Jentsch is thankful to have a warm place to go. “They welcomed us in with open arms,” she explained. “I get a meal in the morning, at lunch, and suppertime.”
Since Tuesday, the camp has helped more than a dozen people a day affected by the ice storm.
Jean Bell just needed a hot shower. “It feels good after a couple of days,” she said. She’s not sure when she’ll be able to have one at home. “I get my power back on today or tomorrow,” she explained. “They’re still working. They work until they can’t see anymore up there. Those power people are really good, there’s just so much they’ve got to do.”
Until the power is restored, the Woodman Camp is ready to serve. “We saw some people come in the latter part of the week that you could tell they were really stressed from lack of sleep and being cold,” said camp director Lamar Harvey. “Some of them have come and gone. Upon leaving they really look good so we’re pleased that we’re able to help them that way.”
About 40 people from a power company in Oklahoma who are working on restoring power in the area are also staying at Woodman. The camp also housed people after the February 2008 tornadoes which ravaged the area.
