WNC employees, students, families to help Fernley flood victims

Wanting to do something to help those affected by last week's flood in Fernley, Helaine Jesse, vice president of development and external affairs at Western Nevada College, has put out a rally call for help.

"I saw it on Channel 4 and had been wanting to do something anyway," Jesse said. "So I called Calvary Chapel and got the information."

Jesse is asking all WNC employees, their families and friends to help remove mud and muck from affected homes.

Those helping should meet at 8:30 a.m. today at Cottonwood Elementary School on Cottonwood Lane (direct exit off Highway 95A).

From Silver Springs, take a right on Cottonwood Lane and go to the end of the road. The school is on the right.

Wear rubber boots and bring rubber gloves, a push broom, regular broom and shovel - a snow shovel would work best.

The effort is being coordinated by churches in Fernley. Trucks will also be needed.

It would be best to bring a change of socks and shoes.

Jesse doesn't know how many people will show up, but she hopes to get in four hours of back-breaking labor, at least.

"The whole baseball team is coming," she said.

"It's gonna be dirty. I don't care. These people lost everything, and I don't care if it's dirty. They're our neighbors, our friends.

"If the community wants to help, just show up. We can help somebody."

Jesse said it is an opportunity to muck out some homes and be part of an effort to shine some light on the tragedy.

"Wear your WNC or WNCC T-shirt or sweatshirt if you have one."

• Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.