United Way of Southwest Virginia has raised millions of dollars to help communities throughout the Commonwealth continue to recover from Hurricane Helene.
From Sept. 30 to Dec. 30, 2024, the organization was able to raise more than $2 million through community-based donations. This funding will be distributed directly to 14 localities, supporting efforts to rebuild.
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“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, these funds will provide critical assistance to those who need it most,” said Megan Parks, Executive Director of United Way of Southwest Virginia. “As recovery continues, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping these communities rebuild and become stronger. We’re deeply grateful for the donors, volunteers, and partners who made this possible.”
Additionally, United Way of Southwest Virginia will continue to work with affected localities over the next 24 to 36 months to “foster long-term resilience.”
“Our vision extends beyond recovery,” Parks explained. “We are working to build a specialized division within United Way to focus on disaster response and prevention, ensuring that our region is better equipped to face future challenges. Together, we can rebuild and safeguard our communities for generations to come.”
United has also established a new financial resource this year, ‘The Southwest Virginia Regional Disaster Rapid Response Fund,’ which will ensure immediate assistance following natural or humanitarian disasters and make sure emergency needs (e.g. food, shelter and medical care) are also met.
