Dogwood Health Trust Unleashes Over $30 Million to Transform Community Wellness!

Significant Relief Funding Announced for Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene

Asheville, NC, October 4, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) –⁤ In response to the profound impact of Hurricane Helene on Western North Carolina (WNC), ‍Dogwood⁣ Health Trust has declared over $30 million in initial relief funding. ⁢This ⁤financial aid aims to‌ meet urgent needs⁢ in the wake of the hurricane and‍ was unanimously approved ​by the board during an emergency meeting held‍ on October 3.

Prioritizing Local Support: Immediate Action Plan

Dogwood is concentrating ⁢its efforts on⁤ empowering local‌ organizations that can promptly address ⁣immediate needs within the community. Additionally, staff members are collaborating with a range of partners at⁣ local, regional,⁢ and national levels to secure further financial support ⁢for recovery initiatives and advocate ⁤for‍ necessary ⁤state and federal funding.

The relief strategy is organized into‍ three​ key areas:

  1. Rapid deployment of resources​ to assist⁢ affected individuals and‍ communities.
  2. Provision of assessment, navigation assistance, ⁢and legal guidance related to FEMA processes.
  3. Ensuring essential health services ‍remain accessible throughout WNC.

“Hurricane​ Helene has created unparalleled challenges for communities across Western North Carolina,” remarked Dr. Susan Mims, ⁣CEO⁣ of Dogwood Health Trust. “While this funding addresses immediate crises ⁣now, ⁢we are ‌committed to supporting long-term recovery efforts as well.”

Dr. Mims also‍ highlighted the resilience provided by established nonprofit networks created through ‌previous investments from Dogwood ​that are currently facilitating access to health care services and nutritious food‌ distribution.

Targeted Grant Distribution: Community Empowerment Initiatives

A primary allocation‌ of $10 million will be directed towards the Emergency and Disaster Response Fund at​ the ⁤Community Foundation of⁢ Western North Carolina which is set up to⁤ distribute smaller grants swiftly among ⁤human service organizations⁢ throughout ‍WNC—a⁣ detailed application process can be ⁣found on their website.

Additionally, ‍over $20 million will be distributed among direct service nonprofits that maintain strong⁣ connections with their communities in WNC. These funds will⁢ provide critical support not only for community needs but also ensure fair compensation for employees striving daily‍ to assist​ those ⁣affected: