CULLMAN COUNTY - Hurricane Irma evacuees have been arriving at Cullman County's Gov. Guy Hunt Rest Stop on I-65 just north of the Dodge City exit. While The Tribune received several reports today that some slept at the rest stop last night, right now volunteers are on the scene, and area churches and other organizations and families have opened their doors. (The Tribune is working to get the full list.)
Rhonda Hagemore, with the Dodge City Volunteer Fire Department, is coordinating efforts.
"I have about 10 volunteers here helping me," said Hagemore, who said several evacuee families were arriving.
Two volunteers there this evening are Jason and Wendy Studdard from Jasper. Said Wendy Studdard, "We actually (saw) it on Facebook today, so we rode up today to see what y'all needed. We're going to come back tomorrow."
Asked why the couple chose to come help, Jason Studdard replied, "Because it could be us that needed the help and I'd like to think if the time ever comes that we needed it, that they'd be there for us. If you don't, you'll regret it. I mean that's as simple as it gets. When it's coming to help other people, if you don't help, what's going to happen when you're in trouble? And there's nobody there to help you?"
According to Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, Rep. Corey Harbison, R-Good Hope said Good Hope City Hall will be opened if needed.
This is a developing story.
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