First there was human solidarity in saving from the catastrophe, and now there is solidarity in cleaning up. Volunteers are also helping on the spot, not only the army and services. Many people are also sending gifts. Money is being collected for flood victims all over Poland.
The flower shop, of which nothing remains, was not only a source of income, but also a fulfillment of dreams. Mrs. Joanna opened the flower shop in Stronie Śląskie in June last year. Now – like other entrepreneurs – instead of customers, she counts losses.
– I think the goods alone were around 30 thousand, because I also mainly dealt with wedding decorations, and all my decorations, walls, tablecloths, and I also received a package with tablecloths, with new table runners, on Friday. Everything flowed, everything – says Mrs. Joanna.
The building will also need to be dried, windows and doors repaired, and walls repainted. – We have the army, they help us a lot. Our Volunteer Fire Department, and later some financial support for entrepreneurs will definitely be needed – says Mrs. Joanna.
There are many such water-damaged places in Stronie Śląskie. – There is nothing, there is a hole between the kitchen and the room – one of the residents shows her house. – We can see the basement through the floor – she adds.
Without the support of residents who come and offer help, it would be even more difficult to survive.
– A moment ago, a couple also came out who simply came, asked what to help, and they got to work beautifully. It was the same before, so people help each other – says a resident of Stronie Śląskie. – Everything is provided, there is food, there is drink, there is everything, but there is no roof over your head – she sums up.
Rebuilding the apartment will take at least several months, and winter is getting closer.
Big clean-up in Głuchołazy
In Głuchołazy, a few dozen kilometers away, there is also a big cleanup. The streets of the city center are covered in mud, destroyed furniture, equipment, and people trying with all their might to save their belongings.
– All the rooms, the bathroom, well, practically need a complete renovation – says Mr. Andrzej, a resident of Głuchołazy, whose apartment was flooded. – That's all, the plaster has to be knocked down again – he adds. Everything has to be rebuilt. In an apartment where renovation was being finished before the arrival of the elements.
New furniture and equipment were underwater. – We are completely cut off from electricity, water and gas, we have to count on the help and kindness of people who want to help us – says Mr. Andrzej.
This human solidarity is very much needed by residents now.
Main image source: TVN24