Early in the morning on December 11, severe storms and tornadoes swept across the Southeast, causing substantial damage to communities in Western Kentucky. More than 70 Kentuckians lost their lives, and countless homes and businesses were destroyed. If you and your employees are looking for ways to give back, here are four fundraising efforts that deliver relief to the Kentucky communities that need it most:
- Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund. Established by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, this relief effort will specifically help those impacted by tornadoes in the western part of the commonwealth. All donations are tax-deductible.
- KSR and Kentucky Chamber Foundation Relief Fund. Kentucky Sports Radio (KSR) and the Kentucky Chamber Foundation will work directly with local communities, chambers of commerce, and state and local elected officials to direct relief where it is needed most.
- United Way of Kentucky. Kentucky's United Way network is working directly with emergency management, disaster recovery and local communities to support families affected by the tornado event. 100% of donated funds will go directly to recovery efforts.
- Give Blood. America is currently facing one of the worst blood shortages in more than a decade. Blood Assurance offers two ways to give blood in the southeast: donor centers and blood drives. The Red Cross is hosting a series of blood drives at Vanderbilt's Light Hall in January. Sign up here.
For more ways to help, this article lists dozens of ways to donate gifts, supplies and money or sign up to volunteer.