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, our United Recovery Force is actively involved in the full lifecycle of disaster recovery: Planning & Preparedness, Mitigation, Response, and Recovery.
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
When hit with disaster, United Way of Southwest Virginia steps up and actively seeks funding to assist citizens in our region. Our team goes to work sourcing donations and grants to build a budget for your recovery. We then collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies, plus long-term recovery groups to activate recovery efforts. Through our Contractor Program we directly serve our citizens with home repairs and case management. We stay with you until your recovery is complete.
Southwest Virginia Regional Rapid 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 assistance in the aftermath of natural or humanitarian disasters. 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.
Please note, this fund may be subject to an administrative fee to ensure the fund is properly managed.
Citizen Recovery Program
Our Citizen Recovery Program (CRP) is designed to assist with immediate disaster recovery needs. This can include: temporary housing, food recovery, personal property replacement, education and medical support, vital documents, utilities, and minor home/landscape repairs. We will work closely with you to determine your losses and what can be covered.
***Funding for this program is limited and we may not be able to provide assistance to all applicants. Please submit a completed application so it will be provided full consideration.
Please note that by providing your phone number and submitting the form, you are consenting to be contacted by SMS text messaging. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
For printed applications or questions, contact the Disaster Recovery Coordinator at:
Email: drice@unitedwayswva.org
Phone: 276-268-2504
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 276-268-2504.