Our thoughts are with the communities impacted by the devastating floods in Kentucky. The recent heavy rains followed by freezing temperatures and snow have claimed at least 22 lives across the state.
We understand the overwhelming feeling of facing such destruction, but you are not alone. Various organizations, emergency services, and local communities are extending help, hope, and resources to those in need. In this guide, we have compiled essential information to assist you during the recovery process, including financial aid, emergency services, and organizations offering direct assistance.
1. Options for Temporary Housing
For individuals displaced by the floods in Kentucky, staying with family or friends is the best initial option if possible. This provides a supportive environment and allows you to focus on recovery and long-term housing solutions.
Emergency shelters in Eastern Kentucky include:
- Lee’s College Gymnasium and Jackson City School (Breathitt County)
- Paces Creek Elementary School and Laurel Creek Church of God (Clay County)
- First Baptist Church (Knox County)
- Lawrence County Community Center (Lawrence County)
- Martin County Middle School, old public library, and Inez Elementary School (Martin County)
- McCreary County School Gym (McCreary County)
- New Life Church (Pulaski County)
Additionally, four state parks are open for assistance:
- Buckhorn Lake
- Jenny Wiley
- Natural Bridge
- Pine Mountain
For further information, please contact these establishments directly.
Various organizations like the Red Cross and local community shelters are offering temporary housing and support for displaced residents. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management also provides information on warming shelters and emergency housing locations. Those in immediate need can fill out the Kentucky Rapid Needs Assessment Form for assistance.
2. Guidance on Insurance Claims for Flood Victims
Many flood victims are dealing with severe property damage or complete loss of their homes. Taking the right steps when filing insurance claims is crucial. Acting promptly and documenting all details thoroughly can facilitate a smoother process.
Filing an insurance claim
- Contact your insurance provider immediately – Inform your homeowners or renters insurance company promptly to initiate your claim and provide details about the damage.
- If you have flood insurance – Standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. If you have coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), file a claim by contacting your insurance agent or NFIP Direct. Visit FloodSmart.gov for guidance.
- Document everything – Take comprehensive photos and videos of all damages before proceeding with repairs. Maintain an inventory of damaged personal belongings, including receipts if available.
Navigating the claims process
- Request a copy of your policy – Understanding your coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles can prevent misunderstandings.
- Schedule an adjuster inspection – Your insurer will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. Be present during the inspection to identify all affected areas.
- Keep track of communications – Save all correspondence, including emails, letters, and phone call notes with your insurance company.
Seeking additional assistance
- The Kentucky Department of Insurance offers aid to help residents understand their policies and claims process. Visit their website or call for guidance.
- For claim disputes or delays, legal aid organizations like Legal Aid of the Bluegrass and Kentucky Legal Aid can assist in challenging denials or negotiating better settlements.
- If you require emergency financial assistance, FEMA may provide grants for temporary housing and home repairs following federal disaster declarations.
3. Replacing Lost Belongings and Documents
Apart from home and personal belongings damage, crucial documents are often lost in the aftermath of floods. Replacing these essential records is vital for accessing financial aid, insurance claims, and other recovery resources. Kentucky residents needing to replace lost documents like driver’s licenses, birth certificates, or Social Security cards can do so through appropriate agencies.
Local relief organizations and churches are also offering clothing, food, and household essentials for those who have lost their belongings.
4. Financial Aid and Relief Programs
In late February, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear requested FEMA assistance for the ten most impacted counties. Emergency aid was granted to some of the hardest-hit areas, including Breathitt, Clay, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, and Pike. These economically disadvantaged regions require significant financial support for recovery.
Resources are available for those affected by the recent severe weather in Eastern Kentucky to aid in recovery:
- FEMA assistance: Affected individuals can apply for FEMA assistance online. The FEMA incident ID number for the recent severe weather is EM-3624-KY.
- SBA disaster assistance: Explore low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration for property repairs or replacements.
5. Animal Care and Support
The floods have displaced many pets, strays, and wildlife, necessitating urgent care and support. While helping is essential, prioritizing safety is crucial. Here are ways to assist animals in need while ensuring everyone’s safety.
Helping displaced pets and stray animals
During floods, pets and strays often face displacement, and organizations like the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) play a vital role in rescuing and caring for these animals. Supporting local shelters is critical, whether through donations, fostering, or adopting displaced animals.
KHS is waiving adoption fees for adult dogs (1 year+) during the “Empty the Shelters” event, sponsored by BISSELL Pet Foundation. For more information on how to assist KHS in aiding partner shelters in Eastern Kentucky, visit their website.
Caring for wildlife
Wildlife is often more visible during natural disasters like floods, as they also lose their habitats and seek food and shelter. While the instinct to help is natural, maintaining a safe distance is crucial for both human and animal safety. Here are ways to support wildlife from a distance.
- Provide fresh water and food: Many wild animals struggle to find clean water and food post-flood. Offering water, birdseed, or nuts can aid them.
- Create safe spaces: Providing brush piles or covered areas can offer temporary refuge for displaced wildlife.
- Avoid handling wild animals: Direct interaction with distressed wild animals can be risky. Report injured wildlife to licensed rehabilitators instead.
- Remove hazards: Clearing flood debris like plastic and netting can prevent animals from getting trapped.
6. Supporting Recovery through Donations and Volunteering
As Eastern Kentucky perseveres in recovering from the recent storm, local communities stand resilient. Governor Andy Beshear assures ongoing support for families and communities, pledging to be there until every life and structure is rebuilt.
Ways to contribute to disaster relief efforts in Eastern Kentucky include:
- Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund: State-established fund for survivor and funeral expenses support.
- Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s Crisis Aid Fund: Accepting donations online or at their address. They also offer a resource spreadsheet for Eastern Kentucky.
- Housing Development Alliance: Fundraising for home repairs and rebuilding post-flooding.
- Kentucky Community and Technical College: Seeking donations to aid flood-affected students.
- University of Kentucky: Providing funds for students and employees in crisis. Visit their site for more details.
- Christian Appalachian Project: Accepting financial donations and volunteers. Contact for more information.
- Feed Louisville: Volunteers needed to transport food supplies to Whitesburg. Email to volunteer.
- Red Cross Blood Services: Blood donations, especially type O negative and platelets, are crucial. Schedule an appointment for donation.
- EKY Mutual Aid group: Grassroots community-led disaster relief support for flood victims in Eastern Kentucky.
7. Mental Health and Counseling Services
In light of the tragic mountain floods, Mountain Comprehensive Care Center (MCCC) is offering immediate mental health support to those in need.
If you or someone you know is struggling, assistance is available. Contact MCCC’s 24-hour helpline for immediate support or reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
This article addresses the 2025 Kentucky floods, a distressing event resulting in loss and devastation. We cover this topic with sensitivity and respect for those impacted.