Governor Hogan tours the damage in Ellicott City. Video courtesy of WBAL Radio.

Local businesses and organizations from across the state are coming together to help Ellicott City get back on its feet.

The historic town, built in 1772, suffered extensive damage from record flood waters on Saturday, July 30. Governor Larry Hogan, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman, Senator Barbara Mikulski, and more are all working together to pull state, county and federal resources to figure out a plan for relief and recovery.

Governor Hogan has announced a number of programs from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development that are available to the town's residents and business owners. "Helping residents and businesses get back on their feet and ensuring that Ellicott City's historic main street comes back even stronger will remain a top priority of our administration," said Governor Hogan.

There are also plenty of opportunities available to the local community to get the rebuilding process started.Here are a few ways you can help:

• The Ellicott City Partnership is accepting donations online and collecting volunteer information. Funds will go towards Ellicott City residents and small businesses. Those interested in cleanup and other efforts are asked to fill out this form to be contacted.
• United Way of Central Maryland has set up an online donation page for humanitarian relief for flood victims. You can also text ECStrong to 51555 to contribute.
• Preservation Maryland has set up an emergency recovery flood fund to rebuild the affected properties.
• Food and toiletry donations are being accepted at the Community Action Council of Howard County in Columbia. Visit CAC's Facebook to see which items are in heavy demand.
• According to Visit Howard County, clothing donations are being accepted at the Roger Carter Community Center.
• Local breweries are hosting fundraisers throughout this week and weekend. Visit Jailbreak Brewing, Heavy Seas, and Flying Dog to participate.
• Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center is collecting tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, money, and gift cards. Make a financial donation on its website.
• The American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake Region is also accepting donations for area residents.

Please help us spread the word to assist the residents and small business community of Historic Ellicott City. Stay tuned for more ways to help on the county's Facebook page and HowardCountyMD.gov.