Help Hodge Family Rebuild After Flood

Micah and Jacinda Hodge, and their three children, have been part of the Cook, MN community since 2018. You may also know them through their business, Iron Ranger Arts and the Festival of Skalds.

On Tuesday, June 18th, 2024, terrible storms with 8+ inches of torrential rain swept through Cook, as well as many other surrounding communities, causing major destruction and flash flooding.

On Wednesday afternoon, the flood waters rose above the Hodge family’s house foundation causing them, their two younger children, dog, and cat, to evacuate their home. At its crest point, the contaminated flood waters reached 2 ½ feet inside the house, and 4-5 feet in the storage sheds, workshop, and garage. Almost all of the furniture, business tools, lawn care equipment, and many personal belongings were destroyed. Though they have homeowners insurance, flood damage is NOT covered under the policy. All replacement costs are at personal expense.

After touring the flooded areas of Cook and Biwabik Friday, Gov. Tim Walz said this is the second largest natural disaster St. Louis County has seen in three decades.

While we and they are thankful that all are safe physically, this undoubtedly, has caused so much emotional trauma for their entire family. As Jacinda has stated on Facebook, “Our house will likely be usable but unlivable for quite some time.”

The Hodge family is currently staying in a borrowed camper for the summer. They hope to have the house livable before winter. On behalf of the Hodge family, I am reaching out for help. It’s going to be a long road of rebuilding. Please, If you can donate, every dollar is greatly appreciated and much needed. Please, keep the Hodge family in your prayers and please share!