In response to the devastating tornadoes that struck the Middle Tennessee region on December 9, 2023, Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT) and United Way of Greater Nashville have activated their emergency relief funds. This partnership is a concerted effort to aid those affected by the disaster.
In collaboration with the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County and its Office of Emergency Management, the United Way and CFMT are jointly supporting Davidson County disaster relief effort through the Nashville Response Fund housed at the United Way. This fund aims to gather vital resources to assist in the immediate and ongoing recovery of survivors in the local community.
“United Way of Greater Nashville is heartbroken for our neighbors who were affected by the tornados that devastated many parts of our community,” said Brian Hassett, chief executive officer and president for United Way. “We want to help support those impacted however we can. We are working closely with our partner agencies to provide updated information through our 211 Helpline.”
The 211 Helpline is a 24/7, 365-day information and referral help line that provides individuals in need with help in times of crisis and beyond.
Simultaneously, the two organizations are directing donations to recovery efforts in Cheatham, Dickson, Montgomery, Robertson, and Sumner counties through the Tennessee Emergency Response Fund housed at CFMT. This fund will direct effective and timely assistance to tornado survivors in surrounding counties impacted by the December 9th storms.
“Each one of these funds is intentionally designed to ensure that assistance will quickly get to those who need it the most,” said Hal Cato, CEO of Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. “During this holiday season, we will all be working hard to ensure that amidst the wreckage from Saturday night, survivors know there is a community ready to lift them up.”
The funds raised by both organizations will provide critical support to nonprofit and faith-based partners actively working to address survivors’ needs. These organizations are amongst the first line of support for those experiencing loss after a disaster and address urgent needs such as financial assistance, food and nutrition, temporary housing, debris clean-up, and animal sheltering.
Davidson County residents impacted by the severe weather can visit Nashville VOAD’s website at www.NashvilleResponds.com or dial 211 to self-report needs.
Information and resources for local residents in Cheatham, Dickson, Montgomery, Robertson, and Sumner counties can be accessed at Tennessee VOAD’ website https://www.tnvoad.org or via Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website at https://www.tn.gov/tema.
In this time of crisis, every contribution counts. Individuals, businesses, and organizations are urged to come forward and support these relief efforts. Your donations will play a crucial role in helping communities recover and rebuild from this natural disaster.
For more information or to make a donation:
Davidson County: https://pages.donately.com/
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