United Way of the Coastal Empire announced that it has established the Hurricane Irma Relief Fund to provide support to those affected by Hurricane Irma.  United Way will distribute 100% of the funds received to its funded agencies and programs that are on the front lines of disaster response and provide assistance to victims affected by the storm.

“Our hearts go out to our neighbors affected by Hurricane Irma,” said United Way President and CEO Gregg Schroeder.  “United Way of the Coastal Empire is committed to the well-being of our community.  We’re here for the long term recovery for people in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties.”  Schroeder added, “We have an army of agencies that work around the clock to help those in need, and United Way will continue to asses and identify immediate and ongoing needs of our agencies.”

United Way will provide financial support to its funded agencies to address infrastructure, supply, and other immediate needs that impede the agencies’ ability to bring services back to the community and/or respond to increased demands.  Priority of funding will be given to agencies that provide basic human needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and caregiver services. 

Donations are accepted to support response and recovery efforts related to the disaster.  To give, simply visit uwce.org/give or call 912-651-7700.

Additionally, United Way continues to provide individuals and families in crisis through United Way 211.  Residents can call 211 to connect with direct services and request for immediate needs. United Way 211 is available online at uwce.org/211.

United Way also collaborates with Chatham Emergency Management Assistance to assist our agencies with their restoration efforts. Anyone interested in volunteering can visit uwce.org/volunteer or call 912-651-7727.