Following the tragic mudslide in Oso, Simple Box Storage stepped up and offered to supply and transport steel shipping containers for donated relief supplies.

Four miles east of Oso a major mudslide occurred on Saturday, March 22, 2014. The slide was caused by instability and excessive moisture in the steep hill. The result of the slide was devastating: 41 fatalities, hundreds of families in desperate need of housing, 2 missing people, a closed highway, and extensive flooding and property damage. The slide also brought about an incredible show of local support, hard work, and bravery. The local community stepped up to solve the logistical challenges and to lead the daunting search and rescue operation, garnering nationwide support and respect.

Simple Box immediately donated five containers to the relief effort. A 20 foot “12th man” container went to the Food Bank, a few 8×40 containers formed a make-shift supply depot, and other 8×20 containers began accumulating donations for search and rescue supplies. “The alternative was renting warehouse space at over $10,000 per month,” says Tasha Smith, who coordinated the donation effort in conjunction with the Arlington Food Bank, “we simply couldn’t afford that. So the containers from Simple Box were a huge help.”

As the search effort went on and the needs increased, Simple Box donated the use of two more 20 foot storage containers to the Oso Fire Station for more supply storage. “One of our core values is to make a difference,” says Simple Box founder Ross Black, “so when we realized that we could use our boxes to make a difference for the slide victims, we got in touch right away.” Simple Box also donated the use of their delivery trucks and drivers to haul food, water, blankets and other relief supplies up to the slide area.

Simple Box Storage provides portable storage containers for rent and sale throughout Northwest Washington. Simple Box is headquartered in Lynden, Washington with additional locations in Marysville and Burlington. One of their core values is to make a difference and assist the local community.Storage container Oso and 530 slide

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