Dogwood Health Trust Donates $500,000 to Flood Relief

Dogwood Health Trust has given $500,000 to the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina for flood relief. The initial focus will be on small, quick grants to respond to immediate needs in communities hit hard by August 17th flooding from Tropical Storm Fred.

Dogwood Health Trust interim CEO Dr. Susan Mims said the problems touch on all four of the group’s priorities — housing, education, economy and health and wellness.

Homes were destroyed, and schools were damaged. Many farmers lost their crops. Injuries and debris affect health and there’ll be lasting mental health issues and emotional issues tied to experiencing this and living through it.

Grants will be made on a rolling basis to nonprofits, faith-based organizations and public agencies through a simple, expedited process. As state and federal relief funds reach WNC, larger, proactive grants will address longer-term recovery. Nonprofits are invited to submit online applications at www.cfwnc.org beginning Wednesday, Aug. 25.