We’re listening: saying thank you, a source of healing

EVERETT, Wash. – Members of the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe said “thank you” to first responders and emergency workers on April 24 by preparing a traditional meal of salmon, which is one of the most vital economic, cultural and historic elements of the communities that were directly impacted by the slide.Snohomish County, Wash., April 24, 2014 — The Sauk-Suiattle Tribe hosted a traditionally prepared salmon dinner for 80 people who were involved in the SR 530 Slide response and recovery. Attendees included residents of Darrington, first responders and volunteers, as well as representatives from Snohomish County and FEMA. (Photo by Timara Timmens)

The salmon dinner acknowledged the recovery work – much of which continues – of the National Guard, Darrington firefighters and the Bellingham Incident Management Team. The salmon was cooked outdoors, according to tradition, on the Sauk-Suiattle reservation.

As recovery continues, help is still available.

To see information and links to multiagency resources on the Snohomish County website, click: http://snohomishcountywa.gov/2354/530-Slide.

Those directly impacted by the SR 530 Slide may call a help line operated by the state of Washington. The number is (800) 688-3469. Hours of operation for the help line are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Pacific Daylight Time. For more information, click: www.emd.wa.gov.

SR 530 Slide survivor can also continue to speak directly with FEMA representatives by calling the FEMA help line. The number is (800) 621-FEMA (3362). 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) is available through this number. Survivors who use TTY, may call (800) 462-7585. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time, seven days a week. For more FEMA information, click: www.fema.gov/disaster/4168.