Day 7: Where to get help, offer assistance after tornadoes

One week after several tornadoes tore through eastern Ontarioand western Quebec, many in the region are strugglingto rebuild their lives. Whether you'reamong them or want to help them, here's what you need to know.

In Gatineau, people can donate money and items to a number of locations across the city.

Moisson Outaouaisis accepting non-perishable food and personal hygiene products at 37rue Bombardier. Clothing can be dropped off at Socit Saint-Vincent de Paul at several of its locations (56rue Principale,109 rue Wright, 102, rue Eddy,751boulevard Saint-Joseph,1291rue Saint-Louis, 165avenue Gatineau and 438 avenue Buckingham).

The Red Cross is also accepting monetary donations.

A victims' centre has also been set up at CentrePere Arthur Guertin at 16 rue Briault.

The City of Ottawa still has a number of community support centres open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., where people can get help and information about next steps.

Those centres are at the Nepean Sportsplex, the GreenboroCommunity Centre andWest Carleton Secondary School.Counselling services are also being offered at some locations.

Information sessions for victims

The City of Ottawa is holding information sessions for residents affected by the tornadoes. People in the Greenboroarea can attend a session Friday in Studios A and B at theGreenboro Community Centre,363 Lorry Greenberg Dr., from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday. Another two sessions will take placeSaturday.

For residents of Knoxdale-Merivaleward, an information session will be held in the main auditorium ofWoodvalePentecostal Church,205GreenbankRd., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. People in West Carleton-March can attend a session on Saturday at West Carleton Secondary School, 3088DunrobinRd., from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Any volunteers who want to help with recovery efforts are asked to register at West Carleton Secondary School.

Businesses still suffering

The Heart and Soul Cafe in Dunrobinhad been hoping to reopen on Monday but the owners were told by their insurance company there's too much debris around the property. They now hope to open Wednesday. While it remains closed, the business is helping those who helpedin the aftermath of last Friday's storm by handing out coffee and treats to volunteers and first responders.

DunrobinMeat and Grocery was severely damaged by the tornado. The business won't reopen or relocate anytime soon, said co-owner Michael Fines.

The Canada Post office in Dunrobinhas been relocated to Arnprior(90 Madawaska Boul.) for the time being.

DunrobinFamily Chiropractic has relocated down the road to 3162 Dunrobin Rd.,and should reopen on Monday.