How to support long-term recovery in the Midwest

Alexandria, VA (June 16, 2008) — United Way today announced the creation of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts throughout the Midwest states that have been devastated by the recent floods. Seven states have been severely impacted, with thousands of people evacuated and untold destruction to homes and businesses.

“United Way is committed to the mid- and long-term needs of the communities affected by this disaster,” said Brian A. Gallagher, president and CEO of United Way. “We intend to be a constant and very visible partner to the individuals and families of this region in their efforts to rebuild their lives.”

The focus of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund will be to support the rebuilding of lives and communities. Projects may include ensuring quality education, improving the financial stability of those affected and improving access to health care, including mental health services for those affected by the tragedy. United Ways throughout the affected states will work together, and with community partners and volunteers, to develop strategies to address the long term needs of the communities affected.

United Way also takes a leadership role in ensuring the strength of 2-1-1, a three-digit number that can be dialed for people who need services or for those who want to offer help. Thousands of people in the region are getting connected with the services they need through 2-1-1, such as finding temporary shelter. 2-1-1 provides an invaluable service in times of crisis, providing maximum community access to critical resources and information to help reduce the harmful effects of the disaster.

United Way’s community partnerships will be critical to the long-term recovery efforts. United Way is a member of both the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN), formed to coordinate relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters, and the Major Relief Agency Consortium (MRAC) co-chaired by American Red Cross and United Way. Within this network, the initial response to disasters is led by the American Red Cross while United Way takes the lead in long-term recovery. Red Cross and United Way are joined by partners such as Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Alliance of Information and Referral System (AIRS), Salvation Army, FEMA and many others in this critical work.

People who live in the region and want to volunteer to help with flood relief efforts are being encouraged to register at the United Way of Central Iowa's Web site, www.unitedwaydm.org, or to call 2-1-1. United Ways in the Midwest are not looking for volunteers from outside the region at this time.

Financial donations can be made by credit card online at www.liveunited.org, or by phone at 1-866-404-5826. Checks can be mailed to United Way, c/o One World Communications, 5195 Hamstead Village Way, Suite 135, New Albany, OH 43054. Checks should be made out to United eWay and include "United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund" on the memo line. Questions about the fund can be directed to 1-866-404-5826