Burke Long Term Recovery Group secures $300K grant to strengthen disaster recovery work

The Burke Long Term Recovery Group has secured a $300,000 grant to help build its organizational foundation and expand its ability to support Burke County residents still recovering from Hurricane Helene.

Burke LTRG Chairwoman Kathy Bailey announced the news Thursday at the group’s community meeting, which drew 20 to 30 people, most representing organizations but some attending as concerned residents.

Bailey said the last 12 weeks have been spent creating the framework for the new group. LTRG has signed an agreement with Burke County United Way to serve as its fiscal agent, and it was United Way’s efforts that landed the Dogwood grant, she said. The group is also working closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Red Cross, and other relief organizations.

Bailey said the first $150,000 installment will go toward hiring a consultant to help the group get on its feet and establish its technological infrastructure. She said considerations moving forward will focus on sustainability, including staffing, grant writing, and ongoing training.

LTRG has created nine committees, seven of which already have chairs. Those committees are case management, unmet needs, construction management, spiritual and emotional care, preparedness, public affairs and communications, and donations and resources.

Two committees — volunteer management and policy and advocacy — remain without chairmen, and Bailey said the organization is still searching for volunteers to fill those roles and others.

The group’s next steps will include a strategic planning session and establishing a website after the first of the year, Bailey said.