We’ve all seen some of the amazing photos, videos and drone shots of the widespread devastation caused by this week’s flooding throughout Berrien and Cass Counties and to assist in addressing the problems stemming from those flood waters, a local Disaster Relief Fund has been established so that you can help.
United Way of Southwest Michigan and the Berrien Community Foundation have partnered to establish a Disaster Relief Fund to help with the recovery needs of families impacted. The best part of that partnership is that 100-percent of all funds will go directly to disaster relief assistance through the American Red Cross of Southwest Michigan.
Anna Murphy, President of the United Way of Southwest Michigan says, “All dollars raised by this Relief Fund will be used to help with both immediate, basic needs and long-term recovery of families affected by the flooding.”
If you would like to give to the Disaster Relief Fund, simply click this link right now: http://www.uwsm.org/relief
As an alternative, you can text UWSMRELIEF to 51555.
Breeze Ettl is Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Southwest Michigan. She says, “We are extremely appreciative of the effort being made by United Way and the Berrien Community Foundation.” She adds, “The Disaster Relief Fund will go a long way in providing the support so many families will need in Southwest Michigan.”
If you’d like to make a donation via cash or check, please send to the following address (checks can be made payable to BCF/Disaster Relief Fund):
Disaster Relief Fund
c/o Berrien Community Foundation
2900 South State Street, Suite 2E
St Joseph, MI 49085
United Way and BCF are working closely with the Red Cross for any emergent volunteer needs. The Red Cross volunteers on the ground and in shelters have many hours of specialized training to prepare them for disaster response. Please understand that untrained volunteer opportunities might be limited until new needs are identified. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Julee Laurent, Volunteer Engagement Manager at United Way, at julee.laurent@uwsm.org or by phone at 269-932-3566.
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. They do this by Living United. By forging unlikely partnerships. By finding new solutions to old problems. And by mobilizing the best resources. To join the fight, visit http://www.uwsm.org
