(THREE RIVERS) - The Three Rivers Area Community Foundation is committed to supporting recovery efforts following the March 6 tornado.
To that end, the Foundation, with support from the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, has awarded a combined $20,000 grant to the St. Joseph County United Way to assist individuals and families impacted by the storm.
The tornado caused widespread damage throughout the Three Rivers area, impacting more than 350 homes, local businesses and essential infrastructure. As the community continues to recover, the need for immediate and ongoing assistance remains significant.
Ron Buckhold, Chair of the Three Rivers Area Community Foundation Advisory Board, says the Three Rivers community has experienced tremendous loss, and the Foundation is committed to standing alongside their neighbors during this recovery. He says by working with the United Way, we can ensure that support is reaching those most affected quickly and effectively.
The St. Joseph County United Way is serving as a central hub for coordinating disaster response efforts. With established systems and strong community partnerships, United Way is already mobilizing resources and distributing them to meet urgent needs.
United Way Executive Director Kelly Hostetler says the immediate needs that have been identified are: food distribution and supply coordination; building materials such as tarps, boards, and tools for temporary repairs, bedding, including pillows and blankets; and gas cards for transportation to access essential services.
Many of the homes affected by the tornado are already facing financial strain prior to the disaster. A significant portion of residents fall within the ALICE, or Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed population; working families who are particularly vulnerable to financial disruption following a crisis.