NEW RICHLAND — A fundraiser in New Richland on Nov. 6 generated more than $30,000 to help locals with flood damage relief.

“It was fabulous,” said event organizer Pam Goehring of New Richland. “We live in the best part of the country. The outpouring was just stunning.”

The New Richland Benefit Committee planned the fundraiser to help residents of New Richland who suffered damages in the Sept. 22 flooding, which damaged about 125 houses.

Goehring said more than 800 people attended the event from all over the county.

“We planned for 500 people, so we were fortunate enough to get 125 pounds of beef donated,” she said. “We were able to feed everyone and everything for the meal was donated.”

Funds were raised from the meal — which served more than 700 people — along with an auction and bake sale. The State Bank of New Richland matched all donations received, as well.

Goehring said a fund started at the bank has also taken in close to $10,000, and she hopes to soon have about $40,000 altogether to distribute.

The New Richland Ministerial Association will distribute the donations just before the holidays, around Nov. 20. The dollars will be distributed based on need through an application process. Goehring expects to receive more than 100 applications for help.

She said more than $2 million in damages incurred from the flooding, with nine homes condemned.

An estimated 37 homes at one point needed to replace furnaces and water heaters.

“From what we’re hearing, most people have been able to get furnaces or water heaters, whether they’re charging it and paying later or if someone’s received donations, also had a furnace donated,” Goehring said. “I hope everyone has furnaces and water heaters by now. Maybe our funds can help them pay a portion of those bills when they start to come in.”

The flooding occurred from the influx of 12 inches of rain received in just hours into a drainage ditch Goehring referred to as “Boot Creek,” which runs through town.

Because the town does not sit in a flood plain, with no running river through New Richland, Goehring said residents did not have flood insurance, therefore, these damages are not being covered by insurance.

“We are still so very grateful for everyone who has helped us in this,” Goehring said. “It just shows us we care for each other.”