Despite being slighted by the federal government for aid money after massive flooding, Orange County and other areas are pitching in to help those in need.

President George Bush declared eight areas eligible for federal money to rebuild. However, Governor George Pataki (R-NY) announced Orange County is one of 13 local regions eligible for $35 million in state funding. Pataki says he will press FEMA to re-evaluate the distribution of federal dollars. Officials at FEMA say it is possible that more New York counties will be added.

In the meantime, local firefighters are doing their part in cleanup efforts, both locally and upstate. Several Westchester and Rockland County firefighters were deployed to Montgomery County where they pumped water from homes, provided medical assistance and relieved fellow firefighters.