On April 27, 2011 the lives of hundreds of thousands of our neighbors in Alabama were forever changed. More 200 powerful tornadoes (F3, F4 and F5)  touched down, destroying homes, taking lives and leaving people without power. At this point, the number of people who have been left homeless has not yet been determined.  FEMA announced that 41 counties were designated to receive federal disaster assistance.  Over 40,000 Alabamians have applied for FEMA assistance. 

The outpouring of help has been tremendous.

For individuals with disabilities, dealing with life is always a challenge. Imagine what additional hardship  the tornadoes have introduced to their lives.  It has hit home at UCP as well; some of our employees had damage to their homes and some individuals and families lost everything they had. However, everyone is safe.

Everyone at United Cerebral Palsy wasimmediately concerned about not only the families we serve, but all children and adults with disabilities throughout the region ravaged by the tornadoes.  Seeing this tremendous need,we stepped up to be the leader in relief efforts for people with disabilities.  We contacted the Red Cross and United Way's statewide 211 number and asked them to designate United Cerebral Palsy as the contact point for all individuals with disabilities.  We've alreadyreceived calls from individuals and families throughout Central and North Alabama, and we are working to meet their needs.  We've worked to provide direct assistance such as

1. Providing a wheelchair for a child in Tuscaloosa

2. Providing a wheelchair to an elderly woman in Cullman

3. Sending a truckload of medical equipment to shelter in Tuscaloosa

4. Buying batteries for a power wheelchair for a man in Gadsden

I am proud to work for an organization whose Board of Directors says to reach out and meet the need.  United Cerebral Palsy is a place where a family knows they will receive the help they need.  Even if we have not served them directly for 10 years, they are always part of the UCP Family.

As I look to the immediateand long-term needs of the victims of April's tornadoes, wehave decided to establish a fund to provide assistance to any child or adult with a disability that needs specialized equipment or  support as a result of the devastation of the storms.  The ALtogether Disaster Relief Fund for Disabilities will meet those unique needs now and in the future.

Thank you for your continued support of United Cerebral Palsy as we work to address the needs of children and adults with disabilities throughout Alabama.