Volunteers help local storm victims

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - As thousands of Rhode Islanders faced a fifth straight day without power in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene, volunteers continued stepping forward to help their neighbors in need.

Ellen Parkinson's Providence property was still covered in large branches Thursday, four days after the storm, because her insurance company would not cover the cost of removal.

With nowhere to turn for help, Parkinson dialed 211 and contacted the United Way.  The non-profit organization summoned volunteers to clear the fallen branches from Parkinson's Douglas Avenue yard.

"This is Rhode Island at its finest," says Chris Medici of United Way Rhode Island.  "We're helping one another through this."

Parkinson is a community resource officer who refers people to 211 often.  Now she says she has a better appreciation for the services the United Way provides.

"There's plenty of volunteers who want to help you."