Following tornadoes that touched down in Kankakee County, the Emergency Response Fund of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties has been activated to support local recovery efforts.
 

This fund, maintained through a partnership between the Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley and United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties, allows our community to respond quickly when disasters strike. Donations will support trusted local nonprofit organizations that are helping families recover from storm damage and rebuild in the weeks and months ahead.

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Two Ways To Give:

Give Through United Way  or  Give Through the Community Foundation

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Your gift will help local nonprofits meet urgent needs such as emergency supplies, temporary support services, and recovery assistance for families affected by the storm.

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Help us ensure our neighbors have the support they need during this difficult time.

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How the Emergency Response Fund Works

The Emergency Response Fund was created to provide swift and coordinated assistance during times of crisis. By pooling resources and working closely with nonprofit partners across Kankakee and Iroquois Counties, the fund ensures that support reaches those who need it most.

• Rapid Response | Funds are deployed quickly to address urgent community needs following natural or man-made disasters.

• Community Collaboration | Local nonprofits and community partners work together to identify needs, coordinate resources, and deliver services where they are needed most.

• Long-Term Recovery | In addition to immediate relief, the fund supports long-term recovery efforts as families and communities begin rebuilding.

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A Proven Model for Crisis Response

The Emergency Response Fund was originally created during the COVID-19 pandemic by the Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley and United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties.

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Between 2020 and 2021, the partnership raised more than $680,000, distributing seven rounds of relief funding to local nonprofits so they could continue serving families during the height of the crisis.

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The fund remained on standby for future disasters affecting our community — and has now been activated in response to the recent tornadoes.

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How Funds Are Utalized​

Grants from the Emergency Response Fund are awarded through a transparent and accountable process overseen jointly by representatives from the Community Foundation and United Way.

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Funding is directed to nonprofit organizations that:​

• Demonstrate clear community need

• Provide effective services to impacted residents

• Align with the fund’s mission to support disaster response and recovery

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These organizations work directly with families and individuals affected by the disaster.

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Need Help or Looking for Resources?

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Individuals and families affected by the recent storms who need assistance are encouraged to connect with local support services.

• Dial 2-1-1 to speak with a trained specialist who can help connect you to available resources in the community.

• Explore the Kan-I Help online resource directory at kanihelp.org, which provides an up-to-date list of local programs and services available across Kankakee and Iroquois Counties.

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Questions?

• Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley | info@cfkrv.org​

• United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties | info@myunitedway.org

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