5 June, 2011
After a tornado and violent thunderstorms whipped through the region, Representative Dykema (D-Hopkinton) and local charities such as Project Just Because, Inc. are reaching out to support the victims. Project Just Because, Inc. (PJB) is a grassroots non-profit organization run by Cherylann Lambert Walsh of Hopkinton, who connects contributors and their donations with community members in need.
“I want to commend Cherylann and all of the community members who are working tirelessly to provide for those who have lost so much in the recent disaster,” Representative Dykema said. “My thoughts are with everyone who was affected by this storm. I have faith in the entire Commonwealth’s ability to work together, rebuilding our communities.”
“We’re here to provide support in any way we can,” Walsh said. “I really hope community members take a moment to remember that there is always someone less fortunate out there, and donating to PJB or another one of the groups that has sprung up in the wake of these events is a small act that can make a huge difference for families in the path of the tornado.”
PJB, a provider for the Massachusetts 211 assistance program, provides support across the state for residents in need, including those impacted by the tornado. The project is currently in touch with victims in the area to assess their needs. Walsh’s group is now accepting donations of goods, funds and services for persons in need. It is not currently accepting large furniture donations, but it does provide a forum connecting those who wish to donate such items with those who are in need. Donations can be made in person or on-line at projectjustbecause.org.
Local woman Laura Sauriol is also running a Facebook page named Monson Tornado Watch 2011 where those who want to help can find a list of needed items and donation drop-off locations.
The Red Cross is also accepting financial contributions for victims of this tornado and extreme weather across the nation.
Walsh can be reached at pjboffice@comcast.net or (508) 435-6511. Representative Dykema’s office can be reached at 617-722-2210.
Individuals and families recovering from the storms are encouraged to visit one of the three recently created Massachusetts Storm Assistance Centers in Springfield, Palmer and Southbridge.
