News Release
For Immediate Release                                                                                                                   CONTACT: Bart Weigel
502-637-9786
bweigel@archlou.org

April 3, 2012

Archdiocese of Louisville Collects Nearly $200,000 for Tornado Victims

Louisville, KY – For the past several weekends parishes within the Archdiocese of Louisville have held special collections to the assist the victims of the tornadoes that ravaged parts of Kentucky and southern Indiana last month.  As of April 2nd, $194, 718 has been donated and more than $200,000 is expected by the end of the week.  The funds are being managed by Catholic Charities, which has trained staff to work with victims of disasters.

Since the day of the tornadoes, Catholic Charities staff member Cathy Palmer-Ball has been active with KY-VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster) working to determine the long-term needs of those affected.

“In the initial phase, we worked with responders to ensure that immediate needs were met,” said Palmer-Ball.  “Now we are returning to the affected areas and communicating with local service providers to determine what other needs are ready to be addressed.”

Steve Bogus, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, is glad the agency is in a position to help the victims, “The generosity of the people of the Archdiocese has been overwhelming.”

Bogus reported that he has been in discussion with the dioceses of Lexington and Covington in Kentucky and the Archdiocese of Indianapolis to offer any assistance the agency has available.  Also, Catholic Charities has formed an internal committee to manage its disaster response and review requests for assistance.

“The early responders performed a wonderful job,” said Palmer-Ball.  “Our role will be to help individuals and families throughout the entire process.  Right now victims are working with FEMA and their insurance companies, but we anticipate a long recovery period with many unforeseen obstacles.  Families will have their homes replaced with initial money from insurance or FEMA, but may need help with furnishings or appliances.  Others may suffer emotional trauma or financial distress.  We’re here to provide ongoing case management and assistance for as long as it takes, whether it’s three months, six months, or a year.”

 

Catholic Charities of Louisville Inc., a member of Catholic Charities USA and an apostolate of the Archdiocese of Louisville, provides services for people in need, advocates for justice in social structures and calls the entire Church and others of good will to do the same.

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