Disaster Relief Fund: Support for Our Community in Times of Need
When disaster strikes, the impact on our community can be devastating. The United Way of Will County is committed to responding swiftly and effectively through our Disaster Relief Fund. This fund is designed to provide immediate aid and long-term recovery support to affected individuals and families, ensuring that no one faces these challenging times alone.
How the Funds Help
- Immediate Relief
- Recovery Efforts
- Long-Term Assistance
How Funds Get Started
- We partner with local municipal leadership to have a plan in place to immediately act and create a fund specific for that community’s need. Contact us to start your public service partnership today and be prepared to respond when your community needs it most.
How You Can Help
- Make a Donation
- Volunteer
- Corporate Partnerships
Disaster Relief Funds
Will County Disaster Fund | Always Open
The United Way of Will County has established the Disaster Relief Fund to provide timely aid in response to natural disasters. This fund is dedicated to assisting with the aftermath of “acts of God,” including severe weather events like tornadoes and floods. Our proactive approach ensures resources are available immediately to support affected communities when they need it most.
Contact Us
For more information on disaster relief funds contact our office 815.723.2500.
Community Partnerships
We are proud to partner with the Will County Emergency Management Association to streamline disaster response efforts. Through this collaboration, we manage the financial aspects of disaster relief, enabling the Association to dedicate their resources and time entirely to recovery efforts during weather-related disasters. This partnership ensures a more efficient response, helping our community to recover and rebuild faster.
Disaster Relief Fund History
The origin of the United Way of Will County Disaster Relief Fund traces back to the catastrophic F-5 tornado in 1990 that impacted Plainfield, Crest Hill, and Joliet. In the aftermath, the mayors of these communities united to request that the United Way of Will County manage and distribute the influx of donations from across the nation. A total of $2.5 million was raised through the Disaster Relief Fund, with every dollar directly supporting the immediate and long-term recovery needs of local families.
Building on this foundation, the United Way of Will County has maintained the Disaster Relief Fund as a vital resource. This enduring initiative continues to mobilize community support, offering a structured and reliable way for local residents to assist each other during times of disaster.