Photo courtesy of MSP The flooding emergency in the U.P. has caused substantial damage to several homes, businesses, and infrastructure. These kits will assist with the clean-up efforts. MSP continue to encourage anyone with flood damage to call 211.

MARQUETTE, MICH. The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is encouraging all home and business owners with water or other damage from recent snowmelt and heavy rain to take advantage of free help by calling 211.

Labor assistance includes but is not limited to water removal, tearing out of drywall or flooring, removal of damaged personal items, and yard cleanup. Free cleaning supply kits are also available.

“As we continue to support the local efforts to recover from this devastating event, we encourage anyone in need to take advantage of these resources available,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “This is designed to help take some of the burden off those who are most affected.”

Teams of volunteers will help with the removal of damaged items and cleanup but will not haul away garbage or debris.

Last month, Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in Alger, Baraga, Dickinson, Iron, Houghton, Gogebic, Marquette, and Ontonagon counties as floodwater water damaged, roads, bridges, utilities, homes, businesses, and other infrastructure.

Residents and business owners in need of assistance are encouraged to call 211 by May 19, 2023.

For more information on how to prepare before, during, and after an emergency or disaster, visit www.michigan.gov/miready or follow MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.