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Jefferson County hosts massive Imelda recovery operation

32 organizations from across the country gathered in Beaumont to provide help to those impacted by Imelda

BEAUMONT, Texas — Organizers say more than 1,000 folks attended Jefferson county multiple agency  resource center in Beaumont. This was the opportunity for different  agencies  to answer people Imelda  questions and sign flood victims up for help. 

 32 organizations from  across the country gathered Saturday to help support flood victims. Beaumont councilman Audwin Samuel spent the day trying to encourage folks to keep the faith, despite losing so much during Imelda.  

"We have to strive to be united in times of need and this is the time we need to be united," Samuel said. "It seems like it's tough but there's always triumph in tragedy.  

RELATED: FEMA reps arrive in Southeast Texas to assist flood victims

RELATED: What does it take to qualify for Red Cross financial assistance after a disaster?

RELATED: What you need to know before applying for FEMA assistance after Imelda

Not everyone was feeling the love. The long lines meant long wait times.
Some say they were turned away after waiting in line for several hour. To enter the Civic Center people had to show proof of residency.

Nikki Richard's house flooded during Imelda and Saturday she never made it inside for help, but she is trying to look on the bright side.

"You don't have to run around from place to place, basically you can go right in and find what you need to accommodate your situation," Richard said. 

Richard may be understanding-- but not everyone feels the same.
their frustrations of long wait times gives local leaders a chance to reflect.

 "we can always do better, always, but we continue to strive to  do better, and we will continue to strive from here," Samuel said.

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