Neighbors in Wyandotte County are continuing to deal with the aftermath of severe storms that hit the community on August 18. Widespread damage and prolonged power outages have created urgent challenges for many residents. After the storm, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issued a disaster declaration, underscoring the extent of destruction and the impact to individuals and families.
Following the storm, United Way 211 saw a spike in calls and the team quickly implemented a report to track disaster related needs and to ensure callers were connected to the right resources. To date, 92 calls, directly related to the storm, have been received. The calls reflected the wide-ranging challenges disasters can create. Residents reached out for help with downed trees, power outages, food assistance, generator fuel, housing concerns, debris removal, and other disaster recovery resources. The most common requests involved connections to disaster relief and recovery organizations, along with assistance accessing emergency supplies, shelter and food resources.
Several calls highlighted the unique circumstances community members were facing.
A property manager of a senior apartment building contacted 211 after the facility lost power. Residents were in immediate need of food and water. The caller was connected with the American Red Cross for assistance and disaster support services.
An adult living with a disability reached out, and shared that a large tree had fallen on their property, preventing them from safely leaving the house. A Community Resource Specialist (CRS) provided referrals to local government services and the utility company because of the tree’s proximity to power lines.
A veteran with children, including family members with special needs called 211 worried about replacing lost food when the family’s freezer failed during the power outage. The household also needed fuel for a generator, and managing the growing financial burden of storm-related damage to their home and vehicle. Referrals were made for food and financial assistance.
A 65-year-old resident reached out after being displaced from their home from a fallen tree that caused significant structural damage. While temporarily staying with family, she was connected with disaster relief resources, including the American Red Cross, to help address her immediate needs.
Throughout the response to this storm, Community Resource Specialists have provided compassionate support, information and referrals tailored to each caller’s situation, answering calls for help 24 hours a day. Whether helping residents find food, navigate recovery resources or address safety concerns, United Way 211 is a critical connection point during a time of uncertainty.
This response demonstrates the important role 211 plays during disasters. Beyond providing information, 211 helps identify emerging needs, connects individuals to available resources and ensures people know help is always available when unexpected events disrupt daily life.
As recovery efforts continue in Wyandotte County, 211 remains available to assist those impacted by the storm and connect them with services as they navigate the path forward.