PROJECTS
DRC Navigator Program
With funding support from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, the Disaster Readiness Center developed a system that would allow LongTerm Recovery Groups (LTRGs) to identify the needs of each survivor, track assistance received, and identify those who needed further case management. The LTRGs hired Navigators to assist in completing the necessary casework. This enabled the LTRG to clearly communicate the community’s overall need, attract resources, and recover impacted citizens faster.
DRC Tornado Shelter Program
In the aftermath of the devastating December 2021 tornadoes, the Disaster Readiness Center proudly partnered with the Community Foundation of West Kentucky (CFWK) and The American Red Cross to extend a helping hand to individuals residing in FEMA-recognized counties eligible for individual assistance from the December 2021 tornadoes.
Recognizing the immediate need for safety during such unprecedented times, the collaboration has provided in-ground shelters to eligible citizens affected by the tornadoes. This initiative addresses immediate safety concerns and contributes to longterm preparedness. We are building a more resilient community by offering a place of safety and peace of mind to vulnerable citizens in the event of a future disaster. A tornado shelter is not just a structure but a haven during unpredictable weather conditions, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members.
Western Kentucky community becomes a safer place to live with storm shelters installed through our partnership with the Red Cross Long-Term Recovery program.
Clara Rice went through terrible losses when tornadoes destroyed her Kentucky home twice in just three years.
Rice first lost her home when tornadoes hit western Kentucky in 2021. She leaned on what she learned in school ─ get to a bathtub to shelter.
“I put my grandbabies in a bathtub and placed blankets and pillows down to cushion it. I put my mama’s bible right between them. The bathtub went flying. It was laying upside down, protecting both boys. Neither one was wet nor injured,” said Clara. “The American Red Cross was one of the first on the scene at my place. They were helping me clean up, helping with gift cards, food, anything they had to offer.”
Three years later, Clara had to relive that tremendous loss when powerful tornadoes hit her community in late May of this year, and she lost her home again. Thanks to a Red Cross long-term recovery program, this time she and her family were able to ride out the tornadoes in a storm shelter instead of a bathtub.
“My neighbors two doors down got a storm shelter installed two months ago. That’s what we stayed in. There were 12 of us in it. The sound of the tornado coming over the shelter was the scariest thing I’ve ever heard in my life. I thank the lord I had a safe place for me and my grandkids, my daughter and her boyfriend. I’m so grateful it was installed in time,” Clara said.