HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In the aftermath of the devastating tornado that struck Plevna and surrounding areas of Reno County, local families, volunteers, and organizations are rallying to support long-term recovery efforts.
To date, an estimated 522 tons of debris, primarily from damaged homes, has been hauled away, reflecting both the extent of the storm’s destruction and the resilience of the community.
A coordinated network of local partners known as Reno County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) has taken the lead in providing immediate and ongoing support. Among them, United Way of Reno County (UWRC) is working toward a $250,000 fundraising goal to help residents rebuild.
“Every dollar raised helps provide the tools and resources our neighbors need to rebuild their lives,” said Lacey Mills, CEO of UWRC. “We’re incredibly grateful to those who have donated and ask others to consider contributing.”
Donations can be made securely online at unitedwayofrenocounty.org/disaster.
As recovery moves forward, the next step for affected families will be a contractor bid tour scheduled for Wednesday, July 2. During the tour, licensed and insured contractors will assess repair projects, primarily roof and window work, and submit bids.
Contractors interested in participating must register by Wednesday, June 25, with Jeff Thomson of Interfaith Housing & Community Services. Registration is available by phone at 620-259-9916 or by email at [email protected].
The Reno County VOAD includes a broad coalition of agencies working together to meet the physical, financial, psychological, and spiritual needs of disaster survivors. Member organizations include UWRC, Reno County Emergency Management, Reno County Health Department, City of Hutchinson, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Interfaith Housing & Community Services, The Volunteer Center, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Kansas Mennonite Disaster Services, Trinity United Methodist Church, and the Kansas Association of Chaplains.