"I was heart felt with so much sympathy when I saw these people in dire need," said Sister Hazel, Director of the William Temple Church of God.

Sister Hazel is helping with the recovery after one of the worst flooding episodes in the history of the Midwest. She hopes that North Central Florida residents will help.

"Let's get up there and do something for those people," said Sister Hazel.

Some of the flood victims are returning home to find almost nothing left. Sister Hazel and her church are collecting clothing, blankets, canned foods, rain gear, fans, electric appliances, children's books, bibles and toys.

Government agencies around the state are also getting involved. The Florida Department of Health sent 26 public health professionals to Iowa yesterday to help with emergency response including three from Marion County and one from Alachua County.

"Now that people are moving back in their communities, it is time to go and make sure the drinking water is going to be safe- - make sure that that sanitation is not going to be an issue," said Anthony Dennis, director of Alachua County Environmental Health.

The drinking water supply is the Department of Health's biggest concern. They will help to find a safe alternate drinking water supply if necessary.

"If they find that they need additional help or additional assessments, the Department of Health will put together a couple more teams," said Dennis.

If you are interested in donating items, please contact Sister Hazel at (352) 378-9496.