More than $20,000 has been collected for Southwest Michigan’s Disaster Relief Fund Community, which was setup to help flood victims across Berrien and Cass counties. The funds were collected over a span of five days.

“The American Red Cross of Southwest Michigan, United Way of Southwest Michigan, and the Berrien Community Foundation thank the community for their amazing support. The work that has happened in a short amount of time has been incredible,” said Anna Murphy, president of United Way of Southwest Michigan. “The disaster relief fund set up through Berrien Community Foundation has already raised more than $20,000.”

One hundred percent of all funds go directly to disaster relief assistance through the Red Cross. Murphy encouraged the community to continue to share information on the Relief Fund as the financial support will be a crucial element in helping families recover from the long-term effects.

The Red Cross, United Way, and Neighbor to Neighbor ask that physical items, such as clothing and toiletries, should not be dropped off or offered until proper disaster assessment can be conducted, thus informing what supplies and items are needed.

“We appreciate the generosity that we have seen from the community. Right now, people should continue to consider donating items, dollars, and their time but please wait until we have a better idea of the needs before bringing anything to us,” said Breeze Ettl, executive director of American Red Cross of Southwest Michigan.

The Red Cross has also asked that physical items not be collected and dropped off at shelters or other areas, until further notice.

Organizations interested in developing strategies involved with the collection and distribution of physical items to help affected families are invited to attend an agency meeting at United Way of Southwest Michigan at 2 p.m. Wednesday, at 2015 Lakeview Ave., St. Joseph. This is for organizations only.

Individuals wanting to volunteer or donate items can call United Way of Southwest Michigan at (269) 932-3566. Individuals will be put on a contact list and as soon as needs are identified and processes for distribution are in place you will be contacted.

To give to the Disaster Relief Fund, visit uwsm.org/relief. Or text UWSMRELIEF to 51555.

For those who would like to make a donation via cash or check, please send to the following address (checks can be made payable to BCF/Disaster Relief Fund):

Disaster Relief Fund

c/o Berrien Community Foundation

2900 South State Street, Suite 2E

St. Joseph, MI 49085

About United Way

For more information about United Way visit uwsm.org.