In the wake of this spring’s wildfires, people from across the region, state, and even nation reached out to United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) to help however they could.
“The outpouring of support wasn’t just heartwarming,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. “It enabled our organization to help in tangible ways we haven’t always had capacity to do, and it was a testament to what is possible when we work together.”
UWNEMN’s Wildfire Recovery Fund reached $67,000 for impacted community member whose primary residences suffered. The majority of donations came from individuals; Verizon Wireless and Minnesota Power each contributed $5,000.
Service providers united as well. Thirteen agencies attended June’s Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Hoyt Lakes, organized by UWNEMN. The MARC connected those in crisis with resources, helped agencies identify additional needs, and resulted in clean-up assistance to support ongoing efforts led by Brimson community members.
This month, Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) presented UWNEMN with a certificate of appreciation for its efforts to organize the MARC.
“The shared commitment to serving the people of our region during times of crisis is deeply appreciated,” said DPS Regional Program Coordinator Kelvin McCuskey.
UWNEMN Volunteer and Engagement Coordinator Emily Unhjem called it a “no brainer” for the organization to jump in where it could.
“We didn’t do it alone,” she added, thanking American Red Cross, DPS, St. Louis County, and Minnesota Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MNVOAD) for their guidance and collaboration.
American Red Cross Serving Northern and Central Minnesota Executive Director Dan Williams said UWNEMN’s efforts with the MARC freed up Red Cross resources to focus on immediate supports for residents.
“And maybe more importantly, the trusted community presence of UWNEMN made them a natural fit to ‘host’ the resource center,” he said. “One focus of effective disaster response and recovery is the feel that neighbors are helping neighbors, and the United Way did an excellent job of creating that feel in their recovery work.”
The work continues, especially for impacted property owners, many of whom are still cleaning up and working towards rebuilding.
St. Louis County Emergency Management Coordinator Josh Brinkman called recovery “arguably the most lengthy and challenging piece” of a disaster.
“Close working relationships and strong communication are strengthening everyone’s ability to respond to disaster and help people recover,” he said.