Representatives from numerous organizations in Barton County gathered recently to discuss the mid and long-term needs of those affected by the tornado that tore through western Barton County on May 16.
The purpose of the meeting was to create a collaborative effort to best aid the individuals and families affected by the tornado. Following the storm agencies immediately began to respond, from providing basic needs such as food and shelter, to raising funds for ongoing needs. Agencies discussed a single organization to collect applications for assistance, thus simplifying the process of seeking help.
Organizations represented included Barton County Emergency Aid Association, The Center for Counseling and Consultation, Barton County Health Department, Barton County Emergency Management, Prince of Peace Parish, Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, American Red Cross, Golden Belt Community Foundation, and United Way of Central Kansas.
Nearly one dozen homes in Barton County incurred extensive damage or were total losses. For these families, it can be a struggle just to find a place to sleep at night. Vehicles and personal belongings also were lost or damaged during the storm, making it an ongoing challenge to get to and from work every day.
While damage to many properties in Barton County and the City of Pawnee Rock were substantial, the amount of damage may not warrant state or federal disaster declarations. When state and federal resources are not available, it is up the local communities, family, friends and neighbors to help.
HOW TO HELP
Ongoing fundraising efforts will continue. If you would like to donate, then please consider contacting one of the following organizations: Golden Belt Community Foundation activated its Golden Belt Disaster Relief Fund. Donations may be mailed to GBCF, P.O. Box 1911, Great Bend, KS 67530 or made online at www.goldenbeltcf.org.
United Way of Central Kansas established a Disaster Relief Fund. Donations may be mailed to UWCK, 1125 Williams St., Great Bend, KS 67530 or made online at www.uwck.org. UWCK also will be hosting a free-will donation at the June Jaunt on Sunday, June 4 th from 11 – 2 at Veterans’ Memorial Park, with all proceeds going directly to the Disaster Relief Fund. 100% of donations to the Golden Belt Community Foundation and United Way of Central Kansas will be used to assist families affected by the tornado. Other donations locations include Landmark National Bank and Farmers Bank & Trust.
VOLUNTEERING
If you are interested in volunteering and assisting with clean-up efforts, then please contact Linda McCowan-Waite with the City of Pawnee Rock at (620) 617-7121. Volunteers also are encouraged to go to the Barton County Health Department for a free tetanus shot.
APPLYING FOR ASSISTANCE
Anyone affected by the May 16 tornado and in need of assistance may apply by contacting Amy Falcon at Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas by calling (620) 227-1590. Families will be asked to speak with a case manager and fill out an application. Once each applicant’s needs are determined, local agencies will be contacted to determine what resources are available.