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Skilled trades people invited to join group to help Fraser Valley flood victims

Facebook group started by Abbotsford man to help in rebuilding efforts
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Volunteers who are part of the Facebook group Rebuild the Valley helped with filling sandbags Thursday night (Nov. 18) at the Abbotsford works yard on King Road. The task was led by Darren Pauls of Abbotsford. (Submitted photo)

A Facebook group has been started to bring together skilled trades workers to help farmers and others impacted by the floods in Abbotsford.

“This group exists for one reason – community. In the days to come there will be need after need,” reads a statement on the “Rebuild the Valley: Trades Resource” group.

“Any seniors, low income, disabled or those not covered by home insurance, direct them to this page. Having a life again should not be only for the rich and able.”

Lead organizer Mike Klein of Abbotsford said they want to help people impacted by the flooding by getting professionals to volunteer their time and help them “rebuild their lives.”

“We are not accepting or working with money in any way and not taking donations at this time, although material donations will come,” he said.

RELATED: Envision Financial donates $100,000 to support flood recovery efforts

The group joined forced with a group of volunteers led by Darren Pauls of Abbotsford to assist Thursday night (Nov. 18) with filling sandbags at the City of Abbotsford works yard on King Road. They will be there again Friday night.

They are also working with the city and police to get crews out to help sandbag properties.

Other work that members might be called to assist with once the floodwaters recede include building fences, repairing barns, and doing welding and plumbing work.

“We will take anyone – especially labourers,” Klein says.

Among the people who have already stepped forward to offer services are electricians, heavy-equipment operators, construction workers, a logistics coordinator, an operations manager and home renovators.

The group can be found by searching “Rebuild the Valley” on Facebook.

RELATED: Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund established by local fundraising coalition



vhopes@abbynews.com

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Vikki Hopes

About the Author: Vikki Hopes

I have been a journalist for almost 40 years, and have been at the Abbotsford News since 1991.
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