The derecho left behind vast amounts of destruction in eastern Iowa, from downed trees and destroyed crops to damaged homes and buildings. The hurricane force winds from the storm left widespread damage and thousands of Iowans without power. Thankfully, it appears that the clean-up process is in the works and power has began to be restored in some portions of Cedar Rapids and Marion. But, there are still thousands more that have yet to see their power restored and are struggling.

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Luckily, some area businesses have came to the rescue. In true Iowa fashion, businesses such as Hy-Vee and Fleet Farm have decided to step in and provide some support to local storm victims.

Fleet Farm stated in a press release that Cedar Rapids Fleet Farm employees will be distributing a full semi-truck of water bottles to storm victims in Eastern Iowa beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, August 13 until the supply runs out. They will be distributing the water in the parking lot of the Cedar Rapids Fleet Farm store located at 4650 Cross Pointe Boulevard.

Hy-Vee announced in a press release that they will be donating snacks and beverages to residents in need across the Cedar Rapids area. Hy-Vee semi-trailers and the Healthy You Mobile will be helping area victims Thursday, August. 13 and Friday, August 14. The Healthy You Mobile will be making stops throughout Cedar Rapids area neighborhoods distributing snacks and beverages, and allowing residents to charge their cell phones.

  • 11 a.m. near Jane Boyd
  • 1 p.m. in Taylor neighborhood
  • 3 p.m. LADD Library

 

They will also be doing a contactless drive-thru giveaway on Friday, August 14 at the Veterans Memorial Stadium from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (or until supplies last). According to the press release, "Hy-Vee is donating $68,000 in product, which includes more than 140,000 bottles of water and a combination of more than 80,000 protein bars and granola bars (shelf-stable product), and 19 pallets of Nestle Pure Life Water, directly donated from Nestle and products from BODYARMOR."

KCRG reports that US Cellular is offering free wall and car chargers, and portable power packs to those impacted. Equipment can be picked up at the Cedar Rapids store located at 4444 First Avenue NE.

No matter what disaster occurs, Iowans always come together to help each other out. We'll get through this. Keep up to date on the latest local news on our app. Download it below.

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