Local donors, businesses, foundations, and organizations united to raise more than $95,000 for United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN)’s Flood Recovery Program – all of which has now been allocated to local residents impacted by June’s flooding and water damage.
Requests quickly outpaced funds raised, and applications have now closed. The outcome did not surprise UWNEMN staff who worked diligently to secure funding while simultaneously screening applications and speaking with affected homeowners.
“At the time, there were very few resources for financial assistance which was arguably the highest unmet need for those affected,” said UWNEMN Community Impact Director Crystal Royer. “We knew we couldn’t wait to hit a fundraising goal to open the fund, even if that meant funds would be exhausted quickly. Time was of the essence.”
St. Louis County officials report that 550 homes in UWNEMN’s service area have reported damage from June flooding, though it is believed the true number of impacted homes is higher. Common concerns from applicants included: more than $50,000 in damages, lack of insurance coverage for water damage, and health risks associated with sewer water.
Due to the high demand and limited funds, UWNEMN worked with officials from the American Red Cross and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to create a rubric to evaluate requests. Funding allocated assisted with off-setting flood-related bills, replacing damaged appliances, and buying building materials.
“As much as we wanted to get funds out as quickly as possible, it was also imperative to us that we do so in a fair, equitable, and consistent manner,” Royer said. “The first round of funding went to those identified as most at-risk, prioritizing homes’ safety.”
UWNEMN’s Flood Recovery Program funding was provided by Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, UWNEMN’s Community Impact Fund, Great Rivers Energy, Lake Country Power, Minnesota Power Foundation, Twin Metals Minnesota, Pohaki Lumber, Park State Bank, Range Association of Realtors, z’up North Realty, and local individuals.
The program was also supported by local vendors who have provided discounts, free delivery, and donated to the fund, including: Cook Building Center, Keenan’s TV and Appliance Center, Lowe’s Hibbing, Menards, Perpich TV, and Pohaki Lumber.
Among top concerns shared by these partners is unaddressed water damage to furnaces which could cause safety hazards when residents turn their heat on as temperatures cool. Impacted residents are advised to have their furnaces inspected before turning them back on.
“The water may be gone, but that doesn’t mean things are back to ‘normal,’ especially for those who experienced major damages” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. “We are happy to see more resources have become available.”
While UWNEMN’s funding could not cover the full costs of damages, those assisted say the support of the community has been meaningful.
“We’re just very grateful,” said Cook resident Margaret Jarka, noting ways UWNEMN, the American Red Cross, Cook Lions Club, and others have supported her household this summer. “When people ask how we are doing after the flood, the first thing we say is how grateful we are for United Way and everyone who helped us.”