MACF Establishes #RELIEFMIDLAND Flood Relief Fund, Collaborates to Pivot ReliefMidland.org
May 22nd, 2020
The unfortunate devastation caused by widespread flooding in Midland County has provided another purpose for the newly developed website, reliefmidland.org.
Organized by Midland Area Community Foundation (MACF) and United Way of Midland County, the 211 hosted website:
- Establishes a centralized community resource landing page. Links are updated and changed as the disaster relief process unfolds.
- Provides an opportunity for the public to contribute to the Midland Flood Relief Fund.
- Maintains regular communication to ensure a unified response while eliminating duplication.
- Brings stakeholders together to look at short- and long-term solutions.
- Works to coordinate and fill volunteer needs in connection with United Way.
The Midland Flood Relief Fund, initially established with a $250,000 contribution from the Midland Area Community Foundation and $250,000 in matching funds, was put in place to respond to emerging and long-term needs of Midland County, as outlined by the Midland County Emergency Manager and an emerging long-term recovery group.
“The Flood Relief Fund provides a unique source of relief for Midland County,” said Duncan Stuart, Midland Area Community Foundation Board Chair. “Those who wish to give back in this time of need will not only have their contributions matched but can rest assured knowing their donations are being distributed in accordance to recommendations of those most familiar with community needs.”
Established a mere two months prior to the 2020 flooding event was the Midland County COVID-19 Coalition.
“These simultaneous crises that have impacted our community—COVID-19 and this recent flood event— have highlighted the importance of collaboration,” said Holly Miller, Executive Director of United Way of Midland County. “It is wonderful that United Way and Midland Area Community Foundation can join together to help with ongoing long-term needs in wake of this devastation.”
MACF and United Way of Midland County, in conjunction with local government officials and community stakeholders, will continue to monitor and react to emerging community needs.
“We have a resilient community and we have already seen the incredible fast-acting response of so many both locally and throughout the nation,” said Sharon Mortensen, President and CEO of the Midland Area Community Foundation. “We pride ourselves on our ability to mobilize and provide relief in the face of crisis.”
If you would like to learn how you can help, please contact the Midland Area Community Foundation (smortensen@midlandfoundation.org or 989-839-9661) or United Way of Midland County (holly@unitedwaymidland.org or 989-631-3670).
