ALAN keeps hurricane aid flowing

   The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) continues to work together with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and emergency management agencies to meet critical needs resulting from last week’s Hurricane Sandy, and said there’s a need for bulk commodities.
   This week, ALAN helped to streamline relief efforts by sharing information and making connections related to:

• Warehouse space to store and sort in-kind donations. 
• Alternative housing options in New York and New Jersey. 
• Information for transportation waivers and permits enabling retailers and VOADs to make deliveries of relief supplies. 
• Professional work crews for water, sewer and treatment plant rehabilitation. 
• Long-haul resources for debris removal. 

   “We have seen an outpouring of support from the supply chain community,” said ALAN President Jock Menzies, in a statement Thursday. “To date, donation offers have included warehouse space, office space, material handling equipment, and engineering expertise.
   “We are still in the early stages of the disaster, however. The recovery from this event will be a long process – most likely years rather than weeks or months. It will be critical to sustain this momentum to ensure that all needs are met,” he said.
   The best way for companies to help, Menzies said, is to offer monetary donations to reputable disaster relief organizations or contributions of bulk commodities. He encourages interested individuals and organizations to donate responsibly by knowing what is needed and responding to posted requests for support.
   ALAN also continues to post daily reports, including information on how individuals and businesses can obtain support, and the state of roadways and electrical service state-to-state.