Strong communities are built on strong partnerships

TRI-CITY AREA — The Lapeer County Community Foundation and Lapeer County Emergency Management have joined forces to launch the Lapeer County Disaster Response Fund, a locally controlled resource created to streamline relief efforts when major emergencies strike the region.

Designed to prepare the community ahead of potential crises, the proactive fund pairs the logistical insight of emergency responders with the foundation’s philanthropic structure to receive and distribute charitable dollars directly where needs are greatest.

“Emergency Management is built on planning and preparedness,” said Sarah Whaley, Lapeer County Emergency Management Coordinator. “We spend a great deal of time preparing for the unexpected, and this partnership is an extension of that work. By establishing the Disaster Response Fund now, we are ensuring that when a disaster occurs, our community has a trusted and coordinated way to support response and recovery efforts from day one.”

The new framework aims to complement existing disaster response resources, backing both immediate relief operations and long-term community rehabilitation. By establishing the system in advance, officials hope to give residents, businesses, and local organizations a verified mechanism for localized charitable giving during emergencies.

“We’ve seen how communities rally in the face of disasters,” said Nancy Boxey, executive director of the Lapeer County Community Foundation. “This fund allows us to connect people who want to help with the organizations and first responders providing assistance, while ensuring donations can be directed where they are needed most and have the greatest impact.”

Residents and local entities interested in supporting or learning more about the Lapeer County Emergency Response Fund can contact the foundation directly or visit its website.