Ticket sales, drinks, food, merchandise, and other monetary donations totaled more than $42,000 at the flood-relief fundraiser at the Temple Theater in Viroqua on Sept. 8.
Nine most impacted communities of the recent flooding — determined by reported monetary damage reports — have been targeted for assistance. Those are the zip codes of Chaseburg, Coon Valley, rural Westby, La Farge, Ontario, Readstown, Viola, Soldiers Grove and Gays Mills.
Potential recipients can fill out a one-page application to receive a $400 cash grant for purposes that fit their needs. It is the intention to disburse funds to more than 100 families and businesses.
“Many more people are expected to apply,” according to Charlie Knower, chair of the ad hoc committee charged with the distribution of funds. “If someone does not receive a grant, it does not mean they do not deserve it; it simply means there is a limited supply of money.”
Applications for the grants have been distributed to key personnel in each community at village and town halls, libraries, churches, community centers and other such community gathering places. Applications also are available from charlie.knower@gmail.com and at driftlessfloodrelief.com, where donations are still being accepted.
The application deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24.Applications should be returned to charlie.knower@gmail.com or via mail to 2018 Flood Relief Fund, 314 Minshall Ave., Viroqua, WI 54665. Questions about the application can be directed to the email address or via phone at (608) 637-6110.