ROME, NY — Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. and Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan have announced that applications for the Rome Victim Recovery Fund will not be accepted after August 23, 2024.

“Since the moment the tornado hit the city of Rome, our goal has been to help those affected as quickly as possible,” Picente said in a press release. “I am extremely proud of the recovery and relief efforts the County and City have led, and I am grateful to every organization and community member who stepped up to help. The Rome Victim Recovery Fund provided immediate relief to those who needed it most, and I thank the Community Foundation for being our catalyst in making a difference in their lives.”

“On behalf of the City of Rome, I want to express my gratitude to Oneida County and the Oneida Herkimer Community Foundation for their swift and compassionate response in establishing the Rome Victim Recovery Fund,” said Lanigan. “In the critical days following the devastating tornado on July 16, this fund provided vital support to those most affected, allowing our community to begin the healing process. Your partnership has made a significant difference during this challenging time, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to Rome’s recovery.”

The fund was established by Oneida County and the City of Rome through the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties to help residents affected by the July 16, 2024 tornado who did not qualify for public assistance. Applicants were eligible to receive up to $5,000 to use for insurance deductions, electrical hookups, home security, moving expenses, moderate repairs, tree removal and dumpster rentals.

As of August 14, 553 applications have been approved for more than $1.45 million. The majority of the funding has been approved for the following:

– $559,409 for insurance deductible assistance.

– $516,623 for tree removal assistance.

– $154,469 for relocation allowance.

– $132,281 for repair assistance.

– $64,020 for assistance with connecting electricity.

– $23,409 for assistance with a dumpster.

Most damage was reported to roofs, followed by fallen trees and broken windows.

Oneida County contributed $1 million to the fund, with the remainder raised through donations to the Community Foundation. United Way was also a partner in the effort.

“Oneida County’s commitment is a beacon of hope and a vital force in our collective effort to help Rome residents heal and rebuild after the July 16 tornado,” said Alicia Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation. “By pooling our resources, we are transforming compassion into meaningful support for those in need. Our goal is to not only provide immediate relief, but to foster long-term resilience and renewal. Together, we will make a lasting difference.”

The Rome Victim Recovery Fund phone bank will remain open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday until August 23. The number to call is 315-798-5206. Those interested in donating to the fund can do so at https://foundationhoc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1892.

Originally published: August 15, 2024 at 8:00 AM