Gaylord, a small community in Northern Michigan, was recently devastated by a tornado. The 150-MPH EF-3 storm wreaked havoc across the region, destroying businesses and neighborhoods, and displacing individuals and families. Following the storm, the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena sprang into action, opening their gym as a local drop site for donations to support the efforts of the Otsego County United Way. Their team reached out to the Cinnaire Cares Emergency Fund with a request for support.
“We established the Cinnaire Cares Emergency Fund to support our nonprofit partners during crisis, economic, or natural disasters,” said Corinne Hyzny, Cinnaire Vice President, Strategic Communications. “Cinnaire has been a longtime supporter of the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena, and we knew their team would take swift action to get supplies quickly to Gaylord residents impacted by the storm. We believe it takes a village and are happy to do our part to support families and individuals struggling to recover.”
Cinnaire Cares contributed $2,500 to purchase supplies requested by families living in hotels including crockpots, plastic storage containers, dishes, silverware, cookware, children’s dishes, cups, laundry soap, dish soap, and dental care items. Additionally, 30 gift cards were purchased to provide families with food and necessities. The items were delivered to the Otsego County United Way and quickly distributed to 25 displaced families.
“Being able to help our neighbors in need is at the heart of our mission – we work to enable all young people, especially those that need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens,” said Brad Somers, Boys and Girls Club of Alpena Executive Director. “It’s important to teach our youth about civic responsibility and this generous gift from Cinnaire Cares provided the opportunity to show how big of an impact we can make when we all give back. On behalf of the Club, we are grateful to Cinnaire for always being such a strong supporter and advocate for people in need.”
The Otsego County United Way (OCUW) envisions a world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability, and healthy lives. OCUW is responding to immediate needs following the devastation of the tornado and since June 2nd has offered 442 services, helped 357 families totaling 1,090 individuals, and distributed more than $58,617 in basic needs services. To learn more, please visit: https://www.otsegounitedway.org
