CHAPEL HILL – With the recovery from last weekend’s flood entering a new phase, the Red Cross has closed its emergency shelter at Smith Middle School and opened an Assistance Center at University Mall.

Beginning on Saturday, residents displaced or otherwise affected by the flood can receive aid at the new Assistance Center, which will remain open as long as it’s needed. It will be open seven days a week: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 1:00-6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Chapel Hill and Carrboro were hit with massive flooding in a torrential downpour last Sunday afternoon. Since then, the Red Cross has provided 770 meals, more than 2000 snacks, and more than a hundred overnight stays at the emergency shelter at Smith.

In addition to the Assistance Center, the Red Cross has also set up a 24-hour help line for people in need of assistance or information. That number is 919-489-6541, extension 4141.

You can also call the Assistance Center directly at any of four numbers: 903-0676, 903-0677, 903-0678, or 903-0679.