With much destruction left in the wake of Hurricane Ida, volunteers in Downingtown have organized a massive recovery effort, much of it organized online, to help residents, writes TaRhonda Thomas for 6ABC.

“Just through social media, word of mouth, getting connected with different people,” Jason Houck said, describing the catalysts behind the help.

In addition to the cleanup efforts from the massive storm, volunteers are nesting displaced residents into hotels for extended stays.

One of the main hubs for the recovery efforts is the Downingtown Borough Community Facebook page, where individuals, organizations, and students offer help. Residents also post needs directly there.

Coordinators say they still seek more volunteers, monetary donations, and cleaning supplies.

Among the local organizations severely hit by the tropical storm is the school Preparing Adolescents and Adults for Life (PAAL). Flooding closed PAAL, leaving special-needs students without its vital services.

Also, PAAL was without flood insurance, meaning the losses won’t be covered. To make up the shortfall, it launched a GoFundMe campaign to help it rebuild and reopen.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Caprice Shortell, whose 18-year-old son Ryan attends PAAL. “Because it’s the first school my son has ever felt at home.”

Read more about Downingtown’s recovery efforts at 6ABC.