Cleanups underway in Westerly, Newport

WESTERLY, R.I. (WPRI) -- Volunteers poured into Misquamicut Saturday morning to help with cleanup efforts in the wake of Hurricane Sandy.

The volunteers from all over the state began working at 8 a.m., helping area residents with debris and other general cleanup.

Serve Rhode Island, the Misquamicut Business Association and the Greater Westerly Pawcatuck Area Chamber of Commerce coordinated the cleanup efforts.  Work is expected to continue until 5 p.m.

Officials say that residents who need help with cleanup should call the United Way 211 service, and those wishing to volunteer can sign up at Serve Rhode Island's website or by calling 401-331-2298.

Monetary donations are also being accepted through two funds that have been established.  To donate, go to www.westerlychamber.org or www.misquamicutrelieffund.com

Beach cleanups are also underway in Newport Saturday; volunteers will be cleaning debris from Easton's Beach and Sachuest Beach between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m..