When disaster strikes, rural communities face unique challenges that compound the negative impacts. Complicated federal funding equations often leave rural communities behind and resources can be spread out and more time-consuming to access after a disaster.
At United Way of Southwest Virginia, we are engaged in both the immediate response after disaster strikes, as well as remaining active and seeking solutions for long-term recovery efforts.
Immediate Response
Whether it is a manmade or natural disaster, we get called to the scene to help assess the immediate needs. This can range from operating a donations center to collect, organize, and distribute goods, to activating volunteers who can assist with a wide range of immediate tasks.
Long-Term Recovery
Beyond the scope of our Rapid Response Fund, which is always open to collect donations and is designed to be deployed quickly to support emergency response efforts, we also seek out corporate donations and disaster relief grants so we can be ready to assist the citizens of Southwest Virginia when they need it most. This money is then strategically deployed directly to the communities to fund recovery efforts such as repairing and rebuilding homes. We then help coordinate and train Long-Term Recovery Groups and connect them with resources so they can utilize their networks and people-power to get the work of recovery completed.
Southwest Virginia Regional Disaster Response Fund
United Way of Southwest Virginia has developed the Southwest Virginia Regional Disaster Response Fund to serve as a financial resource to provide immediate financial assistance in the aftermath of natural or humanitarian disasters. These funds are specifically designed ot deploy quickly to support emergency response efforts, such as providing food assistance, shelter assistance, purchase emergency supplies, and more. The primary purpose of these funds is to ensure that resources are available at the onset of disaster, allowing United Way to mobilize quickly and effectively for our region. The community will be encouraged to donate to this fund throughout the year to help us be prepared in a moment's notice, if needed. Please note, this fund may be subject to an administrative fee to ensure the fund is properly managed and can function smoothly, helping to achieve the intended goals of the donation.
Citizen Recovery Program
United Way of Southwest Virginia launched our Citizen Recovery Program (CRP) in February of 2025. This CRP was established with the mission to provide assistance for citizens who are recovering from disaster events within our affected counties of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley. This program is designed to assist with temporary housing displacement, rental or utility needs, loss or damage to personal property or vital documents, minor home and/or property repairs, food shortages, education support, and other qualifying losses as noted within the application.
***Funding for this program is limited and we may not be able to provide payments to all applicants. Please submit a completed application within the timeline so it will be provided full consideration.
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For printed applications or questions, contact the Disaster Recovery Coordinator at:
Email: drice@unitedwayswva.org
Phone: 276-525-0974
Disaster Recovery Volunteers
It is truly amazing how our communities come together in the face of a disaster. From neighbors helping neighbors, to people from miles away bringing supplies and donating their time. We are actively building our list of volunteers for both long-term recovery efforts, and to be ready when disaster strikes. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit our "Volunteer" page and complete the online application or contact United Way of SWVA at (276) 628-2160.
QUESTIONS?
Email drice@unitedwayswva.org or call 276-628-2160.
