INDIANA- In the wake of the destructive May 16 tornado, communities across South Central Indiana are demonstrating remarkable resilience, with local organizations, volunteers, and neighbors collaborating to rebuild. United Way of South Central Indiana is leading the “Rising Together: Hope and Help After the Storm” initiative, coordinating comprehensive recovery efforts in the affected areas, particularly Monroe, Brown, and Greene counties, as they embark on a long road to recovery.
Disaster Assistance Loans and Recovery Center Open
A significant step in the recovery process is the declaration of disaster assistance by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for Monroe County and surrounding areas. This opens access to low-interest, long-term loans for businesses, homeowners, renters, and nonprofits impacted by the tornado.
To facilitate access to these resources, a Disaster Recovery Center has been established at Ivy Tech Community College – Bloomington (200 Daniels Way, Room B201, enter through Main Entrance, Door #1). Representatives from the SBA and Indiana’s State Disaster Relief Fund are on-site to assist with applications and answer questions. The center will operate until Wednesday, June 18, at 3:00 p.m., with hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays. It will remain closed on Sundays.
For those unable to visit in person, SBA assistance can be accessed by calling 800-659-2955 or visiting https://lending.sba.gov. Applications for the State Disaster Relief Fund can be made by contacting the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at 317-232-2222 or via email at ia@dhs.in.gov.
Monroe and Greene Counties Mobilize for Cleanup and Support
Cleanup efforts are continuing in Monroe County, with teams like Putnam County CERT joining local volunteers to clear debris from hard-hit areas. The Monroe County Community Organizations Active in Disaster will be coordinating these efforts. Those interested in volunteering in Monroe County can sign up through the Bloomington Volunteer Network.
Greene County is issuing an urgent call for volunteers through June 18 to assist with clearing tornado debris from yards and farmland. Shifts are available Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with all necessary tools and supplies provided. Volunteers should report to the Roy Clark Community Building in Linton, from where they will be deployed to impacted areas.
Community Support and How to Help
The United Way of South Central Indiana emphasizes that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint, and underscores the vital role of community persistence and planning. They extend gratitude to all who have already contributed to the relief efforts, both big and small.
The United Way’s Tornado Relief Fund remains open and is actively accepting donations to support families directly affected by the May 16 storm. Every contribution, regardless of size, aids neighbors in their rebuilding and recovery journey. Thanks to generous donations, the United Way recently directed $2,000 to support recovery efforts in Greene County.
