United Way announces recovery fund for mudslide relief

As the search and rescue effort in Oso, Washington continued into its fourth day, United Way of Snohomish County began the process of establishing a community-wide recovery fund to assist those affected by the mudslide.

United Way seeded its Disaster Recovery Fund for Mudslide Relief with $25,000 from its endowment. JPMorgan Chase added another $50,000 as soon as they heard the fund had been set up. Individuals and organizations interested in contributing to the fund can find more information on United Way’s website at uwsc.org.

"Our thoughts are with the families devastated by these disasters and we want to contribute to helping our neighbors at this most difficult time," said Region Executive with Global Philanthropy for JPMorgan Chase, Cree Zischke."We hope our grant helps bring some relief to those affected and let them know we are here to help."

"We live in a very generous community. There has been an enormous outpouring of support from people throughout the county, state and across the country," said Dennis Smith, president and CEO of United Way of Snohomish County. "That is why we have established a community-wide recovery fund to assist those affected by the mudslide."

"One hundred percent of the money donated to this fund will go to recovery efforts," Smith added.

In reflecting on the incredible work of volunteers and local agencies, Smith singled out American Red Cross. "The Red Cross and local agencies led by County Executive John Lovick and Snohomish County Emergency Management Director John Pennington have done a tremendous job in the relief effort. When the affected communities are ready to start moving toward recovery, we will be ready, too," he added.

United Way will work with local elected officials, community groups and others in Darrington, Oso and Arlington to distribute the funds.