Tornadoes and severe storms affected multiple states in the lower Midwest and South in mid-May. The storms caused least 28 fatalities, widespread power outages, and significant property damage. Missouri and Kentucky suffered the worst effects of the storms.
In mid-March, tornadoes and severe storms affected eight states (Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, Oklahoma, and North Carolina). The storms caused least 42 fatalities, widespread power outages, and significant property damage. In addition, powerful winds contributed to dust storms and increased wildfire activity.
April continues to see significant tornado and storm activity in the South and Midwest (Tennessee, Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Indiana, Alabama and Mississippi). Flooding has affected many communities throughout this region, and storm-related fatalities continue to rise.
CERF+ is connecting with local partners on the ground to learn more about the needs of local artists and offer resources to craft artists who are affected by the storms. If you are a craft artist or artisan affected, please visit our studio protector resources and submit an application for our Emergency Relief program. For any inquiries regarding the application process, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Disaster Recovery Resources for Artists
In addition to our Emergency Relief grant, CERF+’s Studio Protector also has resources to support artists as they begin to assess and re-enter their damaged studios, including:
• CERF+ Webinars on Readiness and Recovery for Artists
• NCAPER Arts Field Guide to Federal Disaster Relief
• Nest Climate Guides for US Makers
The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) provides confidential, multilingual crisis counseling and support for anyone in the U.S./territories experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters, including COVID-19. Call or text the DDH at 1-800-985-5990, 24/7, which includes a “press 2” Spanish bilingual option, to reach a trained counselor 24/7, 365-days-a-year.
Please be safe, and let us know if we can do anything to help.
Finally, for those who are able to, please consider making a tax-deductible donation today. Your support directly helps craft artists in the aftermath of emergencies and disasters.
