Update 2: (July 30 15:30)
Why are there so few deployments? Effectively we are at a standstill until insurance companies arrive and do their paperwork. We also still have a number of powerlines down. Please continue to pray and watch for deployments to appear on the site. Don't worry. There is much work to be done but we need be patient.
In the meantime, LERT trained people can make sure their background check information is up to date. (Remember, they are valid for one year.). Here's the link: https://www.lcms-lert.org/need/detail/?need_id=673397
Update 1: (July 30, 2026)
We continue to assess the locations provided to us by local churches. We are finding that many addresses cannot be worked on until the insurance adjuster comes and/or downed power lines are removed. Many streets are still impassible.
While we do have an active LERT deployment for August 1 in the system and will have some things that can be done, we believe that next weekend will be the weekend for most teams to deploy when we can do actual work.
Please continue to pray and watch for activations. It is likely that there is weeks of work for recovery.
Original:
Dear LERT Volunteers,
The South Wisconsin District, North Wisconsin District, Lutheran Church Charities and local pastors, including Rev. Marshall Frisque and Rev. Keith Gerue, met today to begin assessments and planning for a possible disaster response activation in Menasha.
At this time, we are asking LERT-trained volunteers to indicate whether they may be available to activate in the near future, hopefully beginning on Thursday (7/30). We plan a fuller volunteer activation beginning Saturday (8/1), pending assessment and planning needs.
Please use the RSVP option to let us know whether you think you may be able to serve. Your response will help us plan volunteer teams, work assignments and communication needs.
Please remember that chainsaw operators must be trained through Lutheran Church Charities and/or LCMS Disaster Response. There will also be many other opportunities to serve, and additional information will be shared as plans are finalized.
Thank you for your willingness to serve those in need. Please continue to pray for those affected, for local leaders and for all who may be called upon to serve.
In Christ’s service together,
South Wisconsin District Disaster Response
