EAGLE BEND, Miss. -- South Mississippi Delta residents are in recovery mode after returning to homes that have been under water for nearly six months, but they need materials and assistance as they try to resume their normal lives.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service in Warren County is one of more than a dozen community partners working to assist those affected by flooding in the Yazoo Backwater Area. The Warren County Long-Term Recovery Committee has been established to direct flood victims to the disaster recovery resources they need and collect donations from those who can help.

Materials currently needed include disposable full-body suits, N-95 masks, wheelbarrows and square-head shovels. Water and sports drinks are also needed. Anyone interested in helping contribute these items can visit the Warren County Long-Term Recovery donation page.

Sandy Havard, MSU Extension agent in Warren County, said there is also a need for on-site aid. Volunteers are needed to clean property, pressure wash, cut trees, remove debris and tear down rotting buildings. 

“People in the affected areas need to contact United Way of West Central Mississippi for assistance if they want free clean-up assistance,” Havard said. “In addition, we need on-site case managers and volunteers to help people recover sentimental items in homes that are beyond repair.”

Havard is part of a team of Extension agents in the Mississippi Delta that has been holding workshops for residents to provide research-based information and training on storm clean-up.

Monetary donations are accepted online or over the phone by calling 601-636-1733. Contact Warren County Emergency Management for more information on volunteering and disaster response at 601-636-1544.

Visit the Extension for Real Life blog for videos and more information on cleaning up after a flood.