KENTUCKY, USA — Heavy rainfall brought flash flooding and mudslides across much of eastern Kentucky last week causing catastrophic damage to several communities.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Governor Andy Beshear said 37 people have died. Of those that have died, four are children he said.
WHAS11 is making it easy for you to help those impacted by the flooding in eastern Kentucky by teaming up with the American Red Cross.
There are several ways you can donate directly to the Red Cross:
- Scan the QR code below.
- Call 1-800-HELP-NOW (4357-669).
- Or donate online, by clicking here.
Every dollar donated goes directly to the Red Cross and helps survivors as they work to rebuild their communities.
Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund
Those looking to help can also donate money to the state's Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund, which is similar to the fund created following the deadly tornadoes in western Kentucky late last year.
A little more than $6.7 million has been donated to the fund, Beshear said Aug. 11, from more than 34,000 donators.
Money donated to the relief fund will help with food, shelter and other necessities of life and go towards any emergency funds that are needed in the area.
The first bit of money from the fund, Beshear says, will go to the families who have lost loved ones so they can grieve and hold funerals without worry of the cost. "It's the least we can do," he said.
"I wish I could tell you why we keep getting hit here in Kentucky. I wish I could tell you why areas – where people may not have that much – continue to get hit and lose everything," Beshear said. "I cannot give you the why, but I know what we do in response to it. And the answer is: Everything we can."
Other ways you can donate
If you're unable to donate money, but still wish to help, Queer Kentucky and Southerly have set up drop-off locations across Louisville where you can donate bottled water, cleaning supplies, clothing and hand tools.
The donation stations are located at:
- Old Louisville Coffee Co-Op: 316 W Ormsby Avenue
- Rainbow Blossom in Middletown: 12232 Shelbyville Road
- 502 Power Yoga in the Highlands: 2210 Dundee Road #203
- Sister Bean's Coffee House: 5225 New Cut Road
Click here for a full list of locations in Louisville where you can drop off goods to help Kentucky flood survivors.
Additional resources
Beshear reassured Kentuckians impacted by the catastrophic flooding that federal aid is on the way and will remain there as long as it's needed.
"We're gonna be there for them today," Beshear said. "We're gonna be there for them once they're safe and when they're thinking of what's next as well."
Anyone with a missing loved one is instructed by Kentucky State Police to report them missing using the correct number for your county.
Only dial 911 if you have an emergency, not to report a missing person.
If you've been impacted by the recent flash floods, you're asked to call (800) RED-CROSS.
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