FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE United Way of Southwest Virginia Awarded $150,397 grant for Disaster Recovery and Preparedness by the Appalachian Helene Fund
Abingdon, VA [December 15, 2025]- United Way of Southwest Virginia (UWSWVA) is honored to announce the award of a $150,397 disaster recovery grant from the Appalachian Helene Fund, a collaborative initiative held at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky and stewarded by the Appalachia Funders Network (AFN). This funding will bolster long-term recovery work in communities across Southwest Virginia impacted by Hurricane Helene, while also preparing for future events. The Appalachian Helene Fund was created to build deeper trust between place-based funders and the Appalachian communities they serve, recognizing that true recovery requires sustained investment and community-led solutions.
The committee’s decisions about the Fund are made by a committee made up of several leaders from across the region. Their recommendation reflects a shared commitment not only to respond to immediate disaster impacts but also to support the long arc of recovery defined by local priorities and lived experience.
“We are deeply grateful for this investment in our region,” said Megan Parks, Executive Director of United Way of Southwest Virginia. “Because of opportunities like this, we are able to continue showing up for our neighbors in the ways they deserve, both in moments of crisis and throughout the long process of rebuilding.”
UWSWVA will use the funds to continue its ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts while enhancing its disaster response infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of Southwest Virginia communities. This includes supporting community-led recovery strategies, strengthening partnerships, and amplifying local voices in shaping a resilient future. As part of this partnership, UWSWVA will share stories of impact with the Appalachia Funders Network, highlighting community-driven recovery, cross-sector collaboration, and the resilience of the region.
The United Way of Southwest Virginia's Citizen Recovery Program remains open for applications. If you were impacted by Hurricane Helene, whether that be home damage, personal property loss, medical expenses, or other qualifying forms of assistance, you can learn more about the program and apply online here: CITIZEN RECOVERY PROGRAM
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United Way of Southwest Virginia fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Southwest Virginia because they are the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way convenes cross-sector partners to make an impact on the most complex problems in our region. Through collaboration with government, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, United Way innovates for positive, lasting social change. With a footprint that covers more than 20% of the state of Virginia, United Way of Southwest Virginias serve the counties of Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe, and the cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton, and Radford.
Media Contact:
Megan Parks, Executive Director United Way of Southwest Virginia
276-628-2160