In light of the recent tragedy in Howard County, we have dedicated this week’s #HomeSweetHoCo blog to the ways you can support those affected by the horrific flooding in Ellicott City, which destroyed much of the downtown area. The community at large – including the staff here at Apex – is looking for opportunities to help the business owners, residents, and families impacted by flood. So, we’ve rounded up 14 ways you can volunteer, donate, or participate in events that contribute to the cause.
Volunteer Opportunities
Please note: As the Howard County Government has stressed, it is essential that you do not go to downtown Ellicott City. The area is blocked off to give crews ample opportunity to assess the damage, and the county is working tirelessly to make it safe once again. Here are the current volunteer opportunities that will be held in the near future:
1. Ellicott City Partnership
Once the streets, sidewalks, and buildings are stabilized and safe, the Ellicott City Partnership will be mobilizing volunteers to help business owners clean up their stores. Check www.helpellicottcity.com for updates on when these opportunities become available.
2. Keep Ellicott City Working
With the destruction of downtown businesses, many people are temporarily unemployed. If you or someone you know can help hire staff, join this Facebook group to post contact information, your location, and the position to be filled.
3. Howard County Economic Development Authority
The Howard County Economic Development Authority is working to help businesses recover. To do so, they are reaching out to the private sector to help provide temporary storage or office space. Visit their website to look for notifications.
Donations
4. Preservation Maryland Flood Recovery Fund
Preservation Maryland has set up a donation fund dedicated to restoring and recovering historic properties in downtown Ellicott City. 100 percent of the donations will be used to assist Ellicott City. You can make donations on their website, or sign up to receive updates from them.
5. Howard County Food Bank
The Community Action Council of Howard County is serving as the main food bank for victims of the flood, and they are seeking food and cash donations. If you would like to donate food, please see the list of their highest-demand items below.
- High protein canned meals w/ pop tops (ravioli, spaghetti, soups)
- Single serve, ready to eat (breakfast, snack, or energy) bars
- Paper plates, napkins, plastic forks and spoons,
- Toiletries
- Diapers; baby food products
- Water
- Can openers
If you are able to donate, or are in need of food, visit the food bank from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. here:
8920 Route 108
Columbia, MD 21045
Visit their website for more information
6. United Way of Central Maryland
United Way has established a fund called “ECStrong” for those looking to donate money or food, and donations will be used for humanitarian relief. You can text ECStrong to 51555 or go to the website to donate.
Community Events and Fundraisers
7. Nacho Mama’s and Mama’s on the Half Shell
Both restaurants in Canton will donate 20 percent of their sales through Friday to the Ellicott City Disaster Relief Fund. Learn more here.
8. The Ale House in Columbia: August 3, 3-10 p.m.
The Alehouse Columbia is hosting a fundraiser to benefit the Ellicott City Historic District Partnership, and proceeds from Flying Dog and Oliver Brewing pints will go directly to the cause. Find more information here.
9. Yogi Castle: August 3, 5-10 p.m.
Yogi Castle is donating proceeds from frozen yogurt purchases directly to relief efforts for Ellicott City. They will have raffle prizes and a donation station as well. Find more information on their Facebook event page.
10. Jailbreak Brewing Company: August 4, 3- 10 p.m.
Jailbreak is holding free brewery tours this Thursday. Giggy’s BBQ and Catering will have a food truck on site, and the brewery will be donating 50 percent of the revenue to charities assisting in recovery efforts. Donations are encouraged for the tours, and 100 percent of those donations will also go to charities. Check out their Facebook event for more details.
11. Sonoma’s Bar and Grill: August 4, 7 p.m. - Close
20 percent of the restaurant’s sales on Thursday will be donated to the Ellicott City relief fund.
12. Heavy Seas Brewery: August 6 & 7
Heavey Seas' will donate 50 percent of revenue from noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Sunday to the Ellicott City Partnership via this event.
13. White Oak Tavern: August 7, 4-8 p.m.
The White Oak Tavern is hosting a fundraiser that will also donate proceeds from Flying Dog beer and food to the Ellicott City Historic District Partnership. More information here.
14. Victoria Gastro Pub: August 27, 12-4 p.m.
Victoria Gastro Pub is hosting a beer festival to benefit the Ellicott City Partnership and is selling 150 tickets at $60 each. Manor Hill Tavern and the Waverly Real Estate Group will match the funds raised from every ticket sold.
Stay Informed
While our town is picking up the pieces, it is important to remember that many volunteer opportunities may not be immediately available due to unsound infrastructure. Stay tuned to your local news outlets for the latest on how you can support Ellicott City as we overcome this terrible tragedy.
Do you know of any ways to help that aren’t listed here? Please contact us or comment below.
Topics: Apex in Action, home sweet hoco
