United Way Launches Southwest Michigan Cares Fund Following March 6 Tornado Outbreak

*ST. JOSEPH — In the three weeks since United Way of Southwest Michigan activated a new fund in response to the devastating March 6 tornado outbreak, the community has responded with remarkable generosity, pushing total donations past $70,000*.

The Southwest Michigan Cares Fund has become a lifeline for families and communities across Cass County, St. Joseph County, and Branch County that were left reeling from the March 6 tornado outbreak that killed four people and destroyed homes and businesses throughout the region.

"Southwest Michigan, the state of Michigan, and really even the nation has sort of stepped up and really responded here to help these three communities across these three different counties — Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph — that were deeply affected by this tornado," said Zack East, United Way of Southwest Michigan spokesperson.

The fund was activated on March 7, just one day after a powerful supercell storm ripped through areas of Southwest Michigan, causing multiple tornadoes ranging from EF-0 to EF-3 that tore through communities including Union City, Three Rivers, and Edwardsburg.

More Than 210 Donors Step Forward

According to United Way officials, more than 210 donors from across the region and nation have contributed to the Southwest Michigan Cares Fund since its launch. The response has been swift and overwhelming, with donations pouring in from individuals, families, and businesses throughout Southwest Michigan.

"Really, we weren't sure what to expect because it's been quite a while since United Way of Southwest Michigan has had to be involved in some level of disaster recovery for one of our communities. Really, the last time that happened is kind of the COVID era," East said.

The fund has received support not only from individual donors but also from major corporate contributions, including significant donations from Corewell Health, Meijer, United Healthcare, and Priority Health. These corporate contributions have helped bolster the fund's capacity to support recovery efforts throughout the affected areas.

Money Going Directly to Recovery

One hundred percent of donations designated to the fund go directly to recovery efforts, with United Way partnering with sister United Ways in Branch County and St. Joseph County to disburse funds where they're needed most.

"So far, what we've done is partner with our sister United Ways in Branch County and St. Joseph County. That's where Union City and Three Rivers are, respectively, and they are getting disbursements from the fund," East explained.

The funds are being used to support cleanup efforts, temporary housing, and other essential services for families who lost everything in the tornadoes. United Way is working closely with local organizations on the ground to ensure resources reach those who need them most.

Recovery Expected to Continue for Months

Despite the impressive fundraising success, United Way officials caution that the need will persist for months to come. The spring weather that typically arrives this time of year is expected to make cleanup and recovery efforts even more challenging for communities still rebuilding from the tornado damage.

"The spring storm weather that typically comes about this time of year, I think, is only going to make those cleanup and recovery efforts probably a little more challenging for people in those three counties. So I think the need for them is going to continue, certainly for months on end," East said.

The continued support of the community, state officials, and even national donors demonstrates the strong bonds that exist throughout Southwest Michigan. As Governor Gretchen Whitmer continues to seek a federal disaster declaration from President Trump, the Southwest Michigan Cares Fund stands as a testament to the region's resilience and the power of community unity in the face of disaster.

How to Donate

The Southwest Michigan Cares Fund remains open for donations, with contributions being accepted at SouthwestMichiganCares.com. Every dollar donated helps families and communities rebuild after the devastating March 6 tornado outbreak.

Sources

  • Southwest Michigan Cares Fund surpasses $70,000 mark | St Joseph | heraldpalladium.com — https://www.heraldpalladium.com/communities/st_joseph/southwest-michigan-cares-fund-surpasses-70-000-mark/article_adc23a41-8abe-5022-b8d6-fd977a877ca0.html
  • United Way raises more than $70,000 for storm recovery efforts with new Southwest Michigan Cares Fund | 99.9 Y Country — https://www.999ycountry.com/2026/03/31/united-way-raises-more-than-70000-for-storm-recovery-efforts-with-new-southwest-michigan-cares-fund
  • Whitmer seeks federal aid for southwest Michigan after 4 killed in deadliest tornado event in nearly 5 decades — https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/michigan-tornadoes-march-federal-disaster-declaration-request/