The Alabama Onsite Wastewater Association (AOWA) has announced association members will be providing assistance to the tornado victims in Lee County and other areas of Alabama in their recovery and rebuilding efforts with on-site sewerage systems replacements and repairs. The association will also be matching cash contributions made to the assistance program up to a total of $5,000. The assistance program was announced during their recent Annual Meeting in Orange Beach, AL and over $2,500 was donated by attendees at the meeting. In addition to financial contributions, AOWA will be asking for support and assistance from contractors, suppliers and manufacturers across the industry to donate equipment, products and installation services.
Alan Astin, AOWA President noted while this first effort is focused on the destruction in Lee County, this is a Disaster Victim Assistance Program, to help people in distress, whether it is flooding, hurricane, tornado or other natural disasters. Astin said, “Many times emergency relief or insurance may not cover a septic or sewerage system. After seeing the destruction in Lee County, our AOWA members realized we can make a difference in people’s lives when disaster strikes. We are committed to help these victims wherever we can.”
According to Marc Geiger, AOWA Disaster Victim Assistance Program Chairman, individuals needing assistance with the repair or replacement of their septic system due to damage from the tornado, they can fill out an application online at www.aowainfo.org or contact the AOWA office at 334-396-3434 or email aburns@asginfo.net.
Geiger said, “We ask all Alabama licensed installers and members of our industry to support this program. Anyone can help with this effort through a financial contribution to the program or offer of services. We need financial contributions from individuals and companies to purchase supplies and equipment and we need contractors to help coordinate the actual repair or replacement of systems. It is heart breaking to see the devastation and destruction our fellow citizens have suffered. We want to help ease the pain just a little.”
All Alabama licensed installers are encouraged to make a financial contribution to the Disaster Victims Assistance Fund, or donate their services to help in the repair and installation of new septic systems.
To make a financial contribution or offer services contact the AOWA office at 334-396-3434. Thank you for your assistance.
PRESS CONTACT: Charles Hall, Executive Director, 334-396-3434
About AOWA - The Alabama Onsite Wastewater Association is a 275 member trade association representing individuals and companies engaged in the manufacturing, installation, repair or maintenance of onsite wastewater systems. The association provides educational training for individuals to receive a license to provide services as certified by the State of Alabama. In addition, the association supports programs for youth scholarships, continuing education training and monitoring industry regulatory guidelines.