HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In the weeks following the devastating tornado that struck Plevna and surrounding areas of Reno County, families, local organizations, and volunteers have come together in remarkable ways to begin the long road to recovery. To date, an estimated 522 tons of debris, primarily made up of damaged home materials, has been hauled away — a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of this community.
The local VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) group of partner organizations has lead the charge in supporting families with immediate and long-term needs. As part of these efforts, UWRC continues to work toward a $250,000 fundraising goal to assist with ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts.
“Every dollar raised helps provide the tools and resources our neighbors need to rebuild their lives,” said Lacey Mills, CEO of UWRC. “We’re incredibly grateful to those who have donated and ask others to consider contributing.”
To support the recovery efforts, donations can be made securely online at: unitedwayofrenocounty.org/disaster
The next step for impacted families will be participating in a bid tour on Wed. July 2 —a coordinated effort where qualified contractors will be invited to access and submit project bids on specific jobs, mostly related to roof and window repair and replacement.
Interested licensed and insured contractors wishing to take part in the bid tour process need to register with Jeff Thomson with Interfaith Housing & Community Services, by calling: 620-259-9916 or emailing [email protected]. The deadline to register for the bid tour is Wed. June 25.
More Information About Reno County VOAD:
The Reno County VOAD’s mission is to meet the needs for ongoing coordination in Reno County by providing volunteer, financial, spiritual, physical and/or psychological support for people whose lives have been affected by a declared disaster in our community. Community organizations and partner institutions include:
United Way of Reno County, Reno County Emergency Management Dept., Reno County Health Dept., City of Hutchinson, The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Interfaith Housing and Community Services, The Volunteer Center, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Kansas Mennonite Disaster Services, Trinity United Methodist Church, and the Kansas Association of Chaplains.
