LERT volunteers are needed to for cleanup efforts following the tornadoes in Omaha, NE and surrounding area on April 26, 2024.
Nature of work: Debris removal, retrieval of personal effects, possible chain saw work (for LERT chainsaw teams only), picking up metal, wood, bricks and other construction debris, etc. and moving it to the pickup site, general clean-up.
The host congregation is Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church, 15005 Q Street, Omaha, NE 68137.
Volunteers coming from a distance should be self-sufficient and bring bedding, cot/air mattress. Sleeping space and showers will be provided at Divine Shepherd. Volunteers should also bring any necessary work clothes (sturdy work shoes and gloves or boots for mud), equipment for their shift, (if you bring any personal tools, please mark them) and snack food items if they wish.
Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church is providing a breakfast and evening meals for LERT volunteers at the host site. Water will be provided for all volunteers.
Personal Protection Equipment & Gear:
- Sturdy shoes with a good solid sole & socks - no sandals, flipflops, or sneakers.
- Long pants
- Long sleeved shirt (recommended)
- Ball cap or hard hat
- Safety glasses/eye protection
- Sturdy work gloves
- Dress in layers as it may be cool in the morning and warm up as the day progresses
- Rain gear if you have it (weather is unsettled and rain may be possible)
- Water bottle
If your group or team has a first aid kit, please bring it with you.
- All LERT volunteers should have Basic LERT Training and should register at Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church before beginning work.
- There is plenty of parking space at Divine Shepherd. However, please plan to carpool to the work site as it is some distance from the church and parking may be limited.
Background checks are required for all volunteers who will enter residences, retrieve or process personal items, work with youth, or stay at the LERT volunteer host site.
The background check is processed through the LCMS LERT system when you sign up for a shift.
YOUTH 14-17 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN WHO WILL BE WORKING AT THE SITE. MINORS MUST REMAIN WITH THEIR CHAPERONE.
