santiam long term recovery group
As we surpass 2 years from the beginning of the wildfire disaster, we reflect on how far we’ve come, but also, what’s still needed to help our communities rebuild.
Today we serve as the fiscal sponsor for the Santiam Long Term Recovery Group as we continue to work closely with our valued partner Santiam Service Integration Team to meet the needs of survivor families in the canyon.
Problem
Since September of 2020, we’ve supported the relief effort to support the survivors of the devastating Beachie Creek and Lionshead Wildfires.
Solution & Impact
To date, United Way has raised over a million dollars to support long term recovery efforts in the Canyon and has facilitated the beginning structure of the Santiam Canyon Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) – an organized effort of over 110 community partners, volunteers, social service providers, county, city and federal teams to help our friends rebuild and thrive. This model is structured with several committees that support the needs of survivors – such as the Volunteer Committee, Housing Committee, Construction Committee and more.
Moving forward, United Way will serve as the fiscal agent for this new nonprofit group. By doing so, our recovery efforts can qualify for additional funding through private agencies, state and federal groups and other national funding opportunities.
“
The short-term relief needs of survivors of wildfires are well known: food, water and shelter. But very seldom are aware that the needs of survivor grow with time, not shrink. The onset of disaster caused trauma can push back even the smallest of recovery goals by years. The journey is complicated and stressful, so it’s very important to have an organization dedicated to meeting the needs of survivors until every family is home.
— Santiam Long Term Recovery Group