SIDNEY - Fremont County Disaster Coalition will hold its annual organizational meeting on Sunday, Sept. 10 at 5 P.M. at the McElroy Building on the Fremont County Fairgrounds in Sidney. Anyone with an interest in preparing for future disasters is invited including individuals or business and organizational representatives. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the organization and to register for membership. Members will adopt the by-laws and elect officers.

Following the flood in March 2019, the Fremont County Long Term Disaster Recovery Group (FCLTDRG) was resurrected to aid in recovery. Its efforts included the distribution of nearly $240,000 in financial assistance, and the coordination of other goods and services to aid hundreds of flood survivors.

Recently, the group has reorganized as Fremont County Disaster Coalition (FCDC). Its vision is to work in cooperation with Fremont County Emergency Management, government entities, faith-based groups, community service organizations, and volunteers to secure equitable assistance for Fremont County residents who are experiencing disaster.

FCDC volunteers are focused on preparing for disasters in order to be ready to respond efficiently and equitably in providing aid. They have identified a goal of establishing a local CERT.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live. CERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. There is a job for everyone no matter their skills or abilities.