BENTON COUNTY RELIEF FUND
A partnership between Benton County cities and citizens

On Sunday, May 26, several Benton County communities--Bentonville, Centerton, Decatur, Rogers, Sulphur Springs, and others--were devastated by some of the strongest storms and tornadoes to ever hit Northwest Arkansas. In response, the governor has already sent a letter to President Biden asking that he declare it a major disaster for the State of Arkansas.

But while that process unfolds, the people of these towns have had to face great hardships, including the damaging and destruction of their homes. Our local nonprofit providers have done what they can to help, but they are struggling with the increased demand, as well as the direct impacts on their own staff and facilities.

The Benton County Relief Fund will provide short-term financial assistance to  households impacted by the storm and the nonprofits who serve them. Households will also receive customized "rescue plans" that will connect them to as many resources and providers as possible to ensure that any need they have--food, shelter, clothing, and more--is addressed as quickly as possible.

How?

Benton County has partnered with Excellerate Foundation administer the program. Excellerate is a 501(c)(3) public charity, and all donations are tax-deductible. Excellerate is covering all administrative costs for the program, meaning that 100% of all donated funds will assist households in need due to the May 26th storms and the nonprofit providers who are helping them.

When?

Distribution of funds to households is expected to begin on Monday, June 3. Families in need should go to harknwa.com/getconnected to start the process.

Distribution of funds to nonprofit service providers is expected to start shortly thereafter, with more details to be announced in the coming days.

We are grateful for your generosity and your willingness to help keep the people in our community safe, secure, and stable in the challenging days and weeks to come.