Within hours of historic flood waters ripping through Eastern Kentucky counties last month, the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky launched the Southeast Kentucky Flood Relief Fund.
Flooding and the residual effects, including mudslides, left thousands of Eastern Kentuckians uprooted, essential businesses closed, and valuable farmland underwater. Through the efforts of our generous donors and partners, the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky helped raise close to $2,000,000 and facilitated a plan for funding those most in need including individuals and families, local nonprofits, small businesses, and farmers.
Among those helped by the Foundation’s efforts was Hazard’s Rebecca Morton. The pressure from rising floodwaters ripped the floors and walls from her home, forcing her family to seek shelter elsewhere.
We lost everything We were so worried. As soon as we got the grant, we went and bought all types of lumber and paneling to work with and started fixing our home.
Rebecca Morton
Local nonprofits including Clay County’s Stay in Clay also received grant funding as vital partners in rebuilding efforts. “The flooding and mudslides wiped out so many of our homes,” said Vanda Rice of Stay in Clay, which provides food and building materials to families affected by the floods. “It took out not only dwellings but roads and driveways. People couldn’t leave their homes to get the help they needed. Just like anyone would, the people who’ve been hit the hardest want to get back into their homes, but it’s a slow process. Donations have been so essential.”
Leadership across the state, including Governor Andy Beshear, have recognized the Foundation’s critical efforts to respond immediately and efficiently. Grant opportunities closed on April 21st, but the Foundation continues to allocate funding and remains committed to helping lead regional efforts that will not only help rebuild communities, but do so with an eye towards adaptability and resiliency.
