The number of residents affected by last spring’s tornado who have not responded to a charity’s outreach attempts has raised concerns with the local case manager.

According to a press release, a long-term recovery meeting was held March 23 at the Seminole Chamber of Commerce to discuss the challenges, successes, and case numbers in Seminole following the May 4, 2022 tornado. Catholic Charities is leading case management for recovery and has a full-time case manager, Kristy Ford, at the Chamber office. She has completed multiple rounds of outreach to 593 households in Seminole County.

“We have received a low number of call backs during outreach. We only have 10 open cases at this time and 48 households did not want services when they were contacted. This is concerning, considering the high number of households that we attempted to contact but the low response rate. We can see that people still have tarps on their roofs and need help, but we can’t help them unless they communicate with us,” Ford said.

Ford presented two cases to the group that received help. One case received funds for materials to fix a roof and back deck that was damaged from the tornado, and another received funds to fix their exterior storm damage and ceiling repairs. Both will have volunteers from different organizations repair the damages.

“We cannot thank the non-profits and stakeholders enough for devoting their time and resources to Seminole. They are prepared to assist victims who still require assistance, and we are grateful and humbled to see them receive it. If a victim still requires assistance, they must get in touch with Catholic Charities and follow the procedure. If they don’t communicate with Catholic Charities, they will not get the help they need,” said City Manager Steve Saxon.

Call 405-465-3808 for assistance and leave your name, number, and a brief description of the disaster impact. Those needing assistance can also visit the Seminole Chamber of Commerce at 326 E Evans in Seminole from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. if they do not have access to a phone and want to engage in services.

Catholic Charities can help survivors with the following: - If you still have storm damage

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We have received a low number of call backs during outreach. We only have 10 open cases at this time and 48 households did not want services when they were contacted.”

Kristy Ford, Catholic Charities Case Manager - If you have struggled with the FEMA or SBA process, or if insurance is not working with you - If your landlord will not make repairs and need a Legal Aid referral or need to relocate - If you had damaged essential furniture (beds) or appliances, and have not been able to replace those items - If any utilities are still non-functional due to the disaster Kaylinn Young, Catholic Charities Director of Family Support Services & Disaster Services, said, “longterm recovery after a tornado is a challenging but essential process that requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and individual citizens. It is an opportunity not only to rebuild physical structures, but also to strengthen social bonds, promote economic recovery, and foster resilience and healing. While the effects of a tornado will be felt for years to come, with support and resources, communities can emerge stronger than before and, we hope, have a better knowledge of resources.”