ALPENA — In response to the devastating ice storms that have affected much of Northeast Michigan, the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan has reactivated its Urgent Needs Fund to support those most impacted across the region. The fund will provide immediate assistance to local nonprofits serving individuals and families facing hardship due to the storm’s aftermath.

The Community Foundation has contributed $25,000 to make funds immediately available for use, and with the reactivation of this fund, individuals and businesses who are able to donate are welcome and encouraged to give to support northern Michiganders impacted by the storm.

Of the nine counties in the CFNEM service area, seven are currently under a State of Emergency: Alcona, Alpena, Cheboygan, Crawford, Montmorency, Presque Isle, and Oscoda. Many in these communities are still without power, facing unsafe conditions, and restoration efforts may take several more days, if not weeks.

“We are fortunate to be part of a caring, generous, and resilient community,” said Patrick Heraghty, Executive Director of CFNEM. “The health and safety of our partners, staff, and neighbors is always our top priority, and we recognize that many in our communities will experience increased hardship in the days and weeks ahead.”

Grants from the Urgent Needs Fund will be directed to nonprofit organizations providing vital services such as access to food and basic hygiene, care for senior citizens, and assistance with other essential needs. While CFNEM cannot provide aid directly to individuals, it supports the work of local nonprofit partners who are on the front lines of crisis response.

Donations to the Urgent Needs Fund can be made online at www.cfnem.org. Checks are also welcome and should be made payable to the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan with “Urgent Needs Fund” written in the memo line. Checks should be mailed to: CFNEM, P. O. Box 495, Alpena, MI 49707

“In times like these, people stepping up to give what they can makes a big difference close to home. Gifts of all sizes will help our friends and neighbors,” Heraghty added. “We’re encouraging folks to support emergency responders and nonprofits working hard to help our region get through this.”

If you are a nonprofit organization serving one of the impacted counties and are interested in applying for a grant from the Urgent Needs Fund, please contact CFNEM Development Director Christine Hitch at chitch@cfnem.org or 989-354-6881.