When Disaster Strikes

The storms that ravaged our area in the summer of 2023 will be remembered for generations.  It was a truly unique situation for the staff and Board of Directors at Amarillo Area Foundation.  It was the first time widespread and varied disasters impacted different parts of the Texas Panhandle within weeks of each other. 

First, were the torrential rains that hit Amarillo and the Hereford area.  The rain was a very welcome sight, but the quantity created massive flooding that wreaked havoc on these communities. 

Then, the tornado(s) hit the main street of Perryton, tragically taking three lives in the community. The storm was a powerhouse, and much of the city’s infrastructure was in its path. 

Since 2006, the Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund (PDRF) has been providing financial support in times of disaster.  PDRF was set up to address wildfires, tornado damage, and, most recently, response to COVID-19. 

The flexibility of AAF’s processes allowed our Board and staff to open an additional fund for the Perryton community.  With a direct hit to the city, it was clear that the recovery would take much longer to address, so the Perryton Benefit Fund was established.  This made it easier for donors to give their gift directly to the city of Perryton, and the Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund could address the issues in Amarillo and Hereford. 

Since public trust is of the utmost importance for us, we wanted to share how much was raised and has since been expended to date in both funds.  We also wanted to honor the incredible generosity of our neighbors who gave during these disasters. 

You will note that there are still funds remaining in both funds; that is because the recovery is still ongoing.  We will continue to work with local leaders, nonprofit organizations, and stakeholders to help the community rebuild. 

Here’s a look at the numbers.