Emergency Relief Fund

Marathon County Tornado Recovery

On April 17, 2026, a tornado touched down in Marathon County, significantly impacting the Ringle area and surrounding communities. The Community Foundation is committed to standing alongside those affected, helping to bridge immediate gaps and support the path toward recovery.

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Over

$259k

Donated

About the Fund

The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin has established the Emergency Relief Fund to support individuals and families impacted by the tornado. This fund is intended to provide timely, compassionate assistance to those experiencing hardship as they begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. Whenever possible, payments will be made directly to vendors to address specific needs, though funds may be provided to individuals when appropriate.

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How Funds are Used

The Community Foundation seeks to address urgent needs resulting from the disaster. In addition to supporting qualified charitable organizations responding to the disaster, the fund, where permitted, also provides direct assistance to individuals whose lives have been disrupted.

Housing instability

Funds may help cover temporary housing, emergency repairs, or other immediate needs so individuals and families have a safe place to stay while they figure out what comes next.

Essential living expenses

Support may help cover essentials like groceries, clothing, utilities, and transportation so families can focus on stabilizing their situation without added financial pressure.

Other unforseen expenses

Every situation is different. From replacing personal belongings to covering unexpected costs that arise during recovery, this fund is designed to provide flexible support when it’s needed most.

Apply for help

EASY APPLICATION PROCESS

If you've been impacted, help is available

Individuals may apply in one of two ways:

Through our online Grant Management Portal
By submitting a paper copy of the application

Apply Online → Download PDF Application

Requirements

Applicants (or those referring them) will be asked to complete a brief form that includes:

Verification that the applicant was affected by the tornado
A description of the hardship being experienced
The amount of assistance requested
Information on other aid received or currently pending

Review

A dedicated review committee composed of five members from the Ringle community and Marathon County will meet weekly to review applications and make funding decisions. This structure ensures that assistance is distributed thoughtfully, fairly, and as quickly as possible to those in need

Community Resources

Call 211

211 is a free and confidential service that connects you with thousands of local programs and services. Simply dial 211 on your phone to reach one of their friendly, trained community resource specialists available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.