The Poarch Band of Creek Indians, concerned about dire conditions in the small community of Flatwood left by a December tornado there, have donated $140,000 to River Region United Way, which is spearheading rebuilding efforts.
The donation came at a community event held on a concrete slab – all that remains of the Flatwood Community Center, which was once a gathering place for residents of this small community outside of Montgomery.
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians Tribal Chair & CEO Stephanie A. Bryan was moved by what she saw there and by her conversations with residents who have lost everything. “We watched the news back in December and grieved for the people of Flatwood,” Bryan said. “We are so thankful that the United Way is here, on the ground, working to rebuild this community, and we are so glad to be able to help in their efforts. God has blessed us, and in return, we get to bless you all. We can rebuild together!”
Jannah Morgan Bailey, President and CEO of River Region United Way, noted, “In the four months since the natural disaster, we have received over $300,000 from the community. That enabled us to buy three homes for residents who lost everything in the storm. Unfortunately, there is a lot of unmet need here still, and we are committed to seeing the job through. This community is very strong, and recovery here is more than building a house. It is about rebuilding a community.”
Chairwoman Bryan and CEO Bailey were joined at the event by Sen. Kirk Hatcher, Rep. Kenyatta Hassell, as well as several local elected officials, pastors, and community residents. River Region United Way is working to meet immediate needs and on long-term plans to help rebuild the community and stabilize life for its residents.
Donations are still being accepted by texting FLATWOOD to 41444 or visiting the website www.rruw.org. Click DONATE, and designate to “FLATWOOD.”
