Heart of Illinois United Way Supporting Tornado Relief

The tornadoes that went through central Illinois this weekend have left many families and individuals wondering where they can go for help and other residents wondering how they can help those in need. The Heart of Illinois United Way's Tornado Relief Fund and the Heart of Illinois 2-1-1 call center are ready to help.

The Heart of Illinois United Way has established a Tornado Relief Fund as monetary donations are the best way to assist nonprofit agencies who are on site helping people who were affected by the storms.

“We are accepting donations through the Tornado Relief Fund at the request of many of our donors and corporate partners who are seeking an efficient and accountable way to assist with the relief effort,” Michael Stephan, President of the Heart of Illinois United Way, said.

One-time donations can be made via credit card by visiting the United Way's website, www.hoiunitedway.org. Donors can also send a check made payable to the Heart of Illinois United Way to:

Tornado Relief Fund
c/o Heart of Illinois United Way 509 W. High Street
Peoria, IL 61606

Dollars raised through the Tornado Relief Fund will be used for short-term and intermediate needs as requested and verified by our partner agencies and collaborating non-partner agencies. These funds will be distributed without administrative fees to agencies that are actively engaged in the disaster recovery.

Central Illinois residents who are seeking non-emergency assistance can call the Heart of Illinois 2-1-1 information and referral line (just dial 211 or 309- 999-4029) to be referred to vital services in their area. The Heart of Illinois 2-1-1 is a partnership between the United Way and Advanced Medical Transport and is available to provide assistance answer questions 24/7. Information for tornado relief resources is constantly being updated, so we encourage callers to check back frequently.

Money raised by the Heart of Illinois United Way stays in our community supporting critical health and human care programs. These programs help more than 100,000 people each year throughout Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Marshall, Stark and Putnam counties.