- Home
- Departments
- Emergency Management
- Gila Bend Recovery
Gila Bend Recovery
Navigating Resources
If you need assistance accessing the website and navigating the resources, help is available at the Gila Bend Library. You can use a computer at the library or bring your own device and use the library’s WiFi. Personnel is available to assist you with navigating the website and accessing resources, including Spanish translation.
Site navigation helper will be at the Gila Bend Library during their regular library business hours. WiFi is available outside the library and is available after hours.
Address
777 N Logan Ave, Gila Bend, AZ 85337
Hours of Operation
Monday: 10 -7 pm
Tuesday through Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
COVID-19 Protocols
Masks are recommended, but not required to entire the library.
Masks are available.
MARICOPA COUNTY AGENCIES
Maricopa County Human Services Department
The Maricopa County Human Services Department, Community Services Division provides crisis assistance, primarily rent and utility assistance, through the local Gila Bend Community Action Program. Community Action services the communities of Gila Bend, Agua Caliente, Hyder, Paloma, and Sentinel.
We encourage residents impacted by the flood to contact the local Community Action Program and make their needs known.
Contact Information
Gila Bend Community Action – Juanaysa Ortiz: 928-683-6502
Maricopa County Customer Services Line: 602-506-0589
Website: maricopa.gov/5682/Community-Action-Program-Offices
Maricopa County Housing Authority
The Housing Authority of Maricopa County (HAMC) offers Affordable Property Management Rentals and Rental Assistance Programs to individuals and families within HAMC’s jurisdiction. HAMC owns and manages 500 units in 15 communities throughout Maricopa County. The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV), also known as Section 8, is a rental assistance program designed to assist low-income families rent apartments or homes in the private market. The Housing Authority of Maricopa County is an Equal Housing Opportunity provider.
Contact Information
Email: info@maricopahousing.org
Website: maricopahousing.org | geo.azmag.gov/maps/hamc
Maricopa County Environmental Services
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department addresses environmental risks associated with mosquitoes, safe drinking water, sewage, foodborne illness, and more. The Department’s Environmental Health Division oversees food safety in restaurants, bars, grocery stores, convenience stores, and other food service establishments. In addition, they oversee health and safety in public accommodation establishments and school grounds. Please contact Tesann (Tess) Fornasiero at (602) 506-6026 or envretailgrocery@maricopa.gov with any questions related to these establishments. For all other inquiries, please call Johnny Dilone, 602-506-6611
Contact Information
Submit a complaint: 602-506-6616
Website: maricopa.gov/631/Environmental-Services
Flood Control District of Maricopa County
The Flood Control District of Maricopa County works to protect Maricopa County residents from the risk of injury and property damage due to flooding. The Floodplain Use Permitting Branch oversees development within a designated floodplain. Flood damage repairs and other improvements are regulated by the Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County and need to meet local, state and federal regulations before work can begin. A Floodplain Use Permit may be needed before you build, grade, fill install any type of wall or fencing or perform any other man-made change to the property. Visit the Maricopa County permitting portal for additional information. Visit https://gis.maricopa.gov/FCD/FloodplainViewer/ to determine if you are in a floodplain. For questions, please contact Jennifer Lynch at jennifer.lynch@maricopa.gov or call 602-506-3320
Contact Information
Submit a complaint: 602-506-2419
Website: maricopa.gov/959/Floodplain-Information
GILA BEND
Town of Gila Bend Public Works and Engineering Department
Assistance with street issues.
Contact Information
Jose Gonzales: 928-683-2255; jgonzales@gilabendaz.org; gilabendaz.org/97/Public-Works
Town Of Gila Bend Water and Waste Water
Assistance with water and wastewater issues.
Contact Information
Donovan Schoon: 928-683-2255; dschoon@gilabendaz.org
Town Of Gila Bend Social Services Department
Food and utility assistance, Senior assistance, disability assistance.
Contact Information
Erica Amezcua, Social Services Director: 928-683-2244; eamezcua@gilabendaz.org
Yenni Rios, Family Resource Program Specialist (for young families 0-5 years): 602-663-0214; yrios@gilabendaz.org
Joanne Carpenter, Family Resource Center Coordinator: 928-683-6502; jcarpenter@gilabendaz.org
Erica Amezcua, Senior Center Coordinator: 928-683-2244; eamezcua@gilabendaz.org
Website: gilabendaz.org/103/Social-Services
Town Of Gila Bend Community and Economic Development Department
Building inspections and code compliance.
Contact Information
Phone: 928-683-2255
Website: gilabendaz.org/101/Community-Economic-Development
Maricopa County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (MCCOAD)
Arizona Southern Baptist Disaster Relief
AZ SBDR is available for flood recovery work beginning when the water has subsided. We can remove household items, floor coverings, drywall, etc. We can also spray cleaned-out homes with Shockwave Solution to help in mold remediation. There is no charge for our work. Homeowners will be sent a Request for Assistance form to be filled out and emailed back.
Contact Information
Email: azsbcdr@gmail.com
United Methodists/UMCOR Response
UMCOR will work with survivors with damaged homes to assist with salvage of possessions, removal of damaged wallboard/etc. Survivors are required to sign exactly what they want us to do, such that both of us know what is expected. Our muck outs are complete, with debris placed by the curb according to the guidelines of the local community.
Contact Information
Polly Turner MD: 480-861-9033; pollyjt@outlook.com
Jo Robinson: 520-576-8663; josiewales95@yahoo.com
211 Arizona
Services Details: 2-1-1 Arizona Information and Referral Service operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week and every day of the year. Live-operator service is available at all times in English and Spanish and assistance is available in other languages via real-time interpreter services.
2-1-1 Arizona operators will help individuals and families find resources that are available to them locally, throughout the state, and provide connections to critical services that can improve – and save – lives, including:
Supplemental Food and Nutrition Programs, Shelter and Housing Options, Utilities Assistance, Emergency Information and Disaster Relief, Employment and Education Opportunities, Services for Veterans, Healthcare, vaccination and health epidemic information, Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Programs, Re-entry help for ex-offenders, Support groups for individuals with mental illnesses or special needs, A safe, confidential path out of physical and/or emotional domestic violence
Contact Information
2-1-1
211arizona.org
Consulate of Mexico
On-site assistance to obtain a passport, consular ID, birth certificate and other consular documents. For legal consultation and other assistance services, a preliminary interview can be conducted over the phone. Legal consultation, general orientation and financial assistance.
Contact Information
602-242-7398
consulmex.sre.gob.mx/phoenix
Arizona Humane Society (AHS)
Companion Animal Assistance
As the state’s designated responder for animals in distress during natural disasters, the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) is currently providing temporary pet sheltering for those affected by the flooding and plans to remain in Gila Bend through Thursday evening. If you are temporarily displaced, please visit AHS’ Emergency Response Team at the pet shelter located in the gymnasium at the old high school, 308 N. Martin Ave., for assistance. The onsite team is also available by phone: 602-587-5452 or via email at dispatch@azhumane.org.
AHS is also offering the following services now through at least Thursday, August 19 to Gila Bend pet owners impacted by flooding, regardless of whether their pets are being temporarily sheltered at the gym at the old high school:
- Veterinary exams for pets with minor injuries due to flooding
- Decontamination baths for pets in flood waters – this should be done immediately
- Longer-term temporary housing for pets as part of AHS’ Project Home Away from Home Program*
*AHS’ onsite Emergency Response Team will meet with pet owners to determine eligibility.
Contact Information
602-587-5452
azhumane.org/disaster-preparedness/
dispatch@azhumane.org
Lost Our Home Pet Rescue
If you are struggling with a crisis situation, Lost Our Home offers a Temporary Care Program for families in need of a temporary home for their pet(s). The purpose of this program is to provide care for pets to reunite pets with their families following a crisis. This program offers up to 90 days of care. Please read through the following in its entirety to learn more.
Lost Our Home is not only dedicated to rehoming pets in need, but also reuniting pets and their families after a crisis.
Contact Information
For prioritization, submit an application at lostourhome.org/get-help/temporary-care then email TCP@lostourhome.org and let them know you are in Gila Bend and in need of flooding assistance.
The Salvation Army | Lead for Donations Management
Contact Information
salvationarmyphoenix.org
602-267-4100
STATE AGENCIES
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AR ROC)
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZ ROC) is the state agency that licenses and regulates residential and commercial contractors in Arizona. AZ ROC staff investigates and works to resolve complaints against licensed contractors and unlicensed entities. During disasters, it is not uncommon for impacted property owners to be scammed by individuals taking advantage of those who feel rushed to make immediate decisions regarding repairs to homes or businesses. Arizona Registrar of Contractors welcomes property owners to call the agency for information about how to avoid these scams and to know which steps to take when hiring someone for repairs, so they are not the victims of additional disasters, such as abandoned or shoddy work.
Contact Information
Verify license status: roc.az.gov
File a claim for the Residential Recovery Fund and see eligibility requirements at https://roc.az.gov/
Jessie Winter, Public Information Liaison, Arizona Registrar of Contractors; 602-882-6084; jessie.winter@roc.az.gov
Arizona Department of Veteran Services
ADVS Benefit Counseling: DVS employs 32 Veteran Benefits Counselors (VBCs), who are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and advocate for Arizona’s service members, veterans and their families with receiving federal and state veteran benefits.
Contact Information
Schedule an appointment at 602-535-1215
Submit application: dvs.az.gov/services/benefits-page
Arizona Military Relief Fund
The Arizona Military Relief Fund provides financial assistance to the families of currently deployed service members and Pre & Post-9/11 Military and Veteran Families for hardships they experience.
Contact Information
Military Family Relief Fund and eligibility requirements: dvs.az.gov/requesting-MFRF
Be Connected, call: 1-866-429-8387
ADVS Benefits Counseling
Contact Information
Schedule an appointment: 602-535-1215
Be Connected, call: 1-866-429-8387
ADVS Benefits Counseling: dvs.az.gov/benefits-page
Get more information: beconnectedaz.org
Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions (DIFI)
DIFI provides consumer guides that are intended to assist flood victims with advice and tips to working with insurance representatives through the claims process, rebuilding after a loss and the purchase of flood insurance.
Contact Information
File a complaint: DIFI.az.gov and Search "File a Complaint
Department of Economic Security
DES works with families, community organizations, advocates and state and federal partners to realize our collective vision that every child, adult, and family in Arizona will be safe and economically secure. DES works to promote enhanced safety and well-being for Arizonans by focusing on three primary goals: Strengthening individuals and families; Increasing self-sufficiency; and Developing the capacity of communities.
Contact Information
des.az.gov
Division of Developmental Disabilities
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) serves more than 40,000 people with developmental disabilities and their families throughout Arizona each year. DDD empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to lead self-directed, healthy, and meaningful lives. DDD provides support and services for eligible Arizonans. DDD provides supports and services to individuals diagnosed with one of the following developmental disabilities: Autism; Cerebral palsy; Epilepsy; Cognitive / Intellectual Disability; or Are under the age of six and at risk of having a Developmental Disability
The Support Coordination Supervisor is reaching out to all members who may be impacted by the recent floods to check in and see if there are any supports that the case management team can provide during this time.
Contact Information
Support Coordinator Supervisor, Martinez O'Brien: 480-298-6866
DES DDD Customer Service Center: DDDCustomerServiceCenter@azdes.gov
Toll Free 844-770-9500
TTY/TDD 711
Get more information: des.az.gov/services/disabilities/developmental-disabilities
Division Of Benefits and Medical Eligibility
The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility helps families meet their basic needs; Nutrition, Cash and Medical Assistance application and eligibility services are available online and by phone.
We can provide support with applications and interviews for Nutrition Assistance, replacement of SNAP benefits for the food purchased and lost by the flood, and issuance of EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards or replacement of EBT cards
Contact Information
Patricia Arbigo: 602-774-5116
Get more information: myfamilybenefits.azdes.gov | des.az.gov
Division Of Adult and Aging Services
The Division of Aging and Adult Services provides a safety net of services to help people achieve and maintain their highest level of self-sufficiency, and works to support at-risk Arizonans to meet their basic needs and to live safely, with dignity and independence. The Division supports a diverse population, from homeless youth to older adults.
We can assist with working with our partners at Gila Bend Senior Center as it is currently open and operational. Anyone who cannot make it into the center will be provided with a home-delivered meal. The Senior Center is operated by the Town of Gila Bend and is located at 202 E. Euclid St., Gila bend, AZ 85337.
Contact Information
Call: 928-683-2244
St. Mary's Food Bank partners
St. Mary's Food Bank partners with the Town of Gila bend Community Action program to provide Emergency Food Boxes. St. Mary's at this time does not have any additional plans this week in Gila Bend, however, they will reach out to Gila Bend to offer additional assistance if needed.
Contact Information
des.az.gov/services/older-adults
State Bar of Arizona Public Service Center
The Public Service Center (PSC) will connect flood victims with volunteer lawyers who can offer brief legal advice on issues related to the flooding, such as property damage, insurance claims and more.
Contact Information
Carol Rose: 602-340-7257
FARM ASSISTANCE - USDA
Contact Information
Emergency Loan Program: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/emergency-farm-loans/index
Services: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/index
U.S. Small Business Administration
Small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by rains, flash flooding and winds in Maricopa County that occurred Aug. 1-13, 2021.
Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Service Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration.
Contact Information
Call: 800-659-2955
Email: disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
Services: https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/
Quick Tips for Returning Home SAFELY After a Flood
entering Your Home
- If you evacuated, return to your home only after local authorities have said it is safe to do so.
- Avoid driving through flooded areas and standing water. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Turn around, Don’t Drown.
- DO NOT wade in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
- Upon entering the building, do not use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, since gas may be trapped inside. Instead, use a flashlight to light your way.
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution in your home. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
Water Safety
- Do not drink flood water, or use it to wash dishes, brush teeth, or wash/prepare food. Drink clean, safe water.
- Listen for boil water advisories. Local authorities will let you know if your water is safe for drinking and bathing.
- During a water advisory, use only bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking, cooking, etc.
- When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food and bottled water that comes/may have come into contact with floodwater
Call Your Insurance Agent to Start a Claim
- Take pictures of the damage in your home and any items that were destroyed for your insurance claim.
- You may want to temporarily store items outside of the home, in a secure place, until insurance claims can be filed.
- Speak with your insurance provider before paying contractors for any repairs (see Arizona Registrar of Contractors for more information about how to avoid scams by hiring licensed professionals)
Cleaning Your Home Safely
- Remove and throw out drywall and insulation that was contaminated with floodwater or sewage.
- Throw out items that cannot be washed and cleaned with a bleach solution: mattresses, pillows, carpeting, carpet padding, and stuffed toys.
- Save samples or swatches of carpeting, wallpaper, furniture upholstery, window treatments and other items where the type and quality of material may impact the amount payable on your insurance claims.
- Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
- People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled.
- Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
- You may need a permit before starting repairs on your home, visit Gila Bend Community & Economic Development for more information.
Other Dangers
- Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
- Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Use generators or other gasoline-powered machinery outdoors at least 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents. If you use a pressure washer, be sure to keep the engine outdoors and 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents as well. Never run your car or truck inside a garage that is attached to a house even with the garage door open.
- The initial damage caused by a flood is not the only risk. Standing floodwater can also spread infectious diseases, bring chemical hazards, and cause injuries.
- In hot weather, try to stay cool by staying in air-conditioned buildings, taking breaks in shaded areas or in cool rooms, drinking water and nonalcoholic fluids often, and wearing light and loose-fitting clothing. Do outdoor activities during cooler hours.
Self-Care- Pace Yourself
Cleaning up your home can be a big job. Be sure to take care of yourself:
- Rest when you need to.
- Make a list and PRIORITIZE! Decide which cleanup tasks are most important, and focus on those first. That way, you’re less likely to be overwhelmed.
- Get help lifting heavy or bulky objects. If you lift too much on your own, you could hurt yourself.
- Try to work with other people, so you aren’t alone. Also, utilize resources from the various state, county, local agencies, and non-profits organizations.
- If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask for support from family members, friends, counselors, or therapists.