GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA (June 17, 2026) Nearly $9,000 has been raised through Heartland United Way’s United After the Storm Fund, providing critical support to families recovering from the devastating tornado that struck rural St. Libory earlier this spring.
The fund was established in the days following the EF-3 tornado that tore through the area on May 17, 2026, destroying homes and leaving several Howard County families facing the unimaginable task of rebuilding with little left.
Community generosity has driven the effort, with fundraising receiving a significant boost from Hy-Vee. Through a variety of initiatives—including a record-setting National Donut Day sale—customers and employees came together to support their neighbors in need.
On Wednesday, Grand Island Hy-Vee Store Manager and Heartland United Way Board Member Brent Grummert presented a $1,000 donation generated through those fundraising efforts.
To ensure assistance reached those with the greatest need, Heartland United Way worked closely with Howard County community leaders and first responders to identify families most affected by the storm. Over the past week, funds have been distributed to four families who lost their homes, helping them begin the recovery process.
Heartland United Way will continue accepting donations to the United After the Storm Fund at http://www.heartlandunitedway.org/stlibory, ensuring support remains available for families rebuilding their lives in the months ahead.