GIRDLER URGES VOLUNTEER HOUR REPORTING TO

SUPPORT FEMA AID ACROSS DISASTER-DECLARED COUNTIES

Volunteer hours count toward FEMA in-kind match

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 28, 2025) — In the wake of the devastating May 16 tornado that struck southern Kentucky, claiming 19 lives, including 17 in London and one each in Somerset and Russell County, Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, is urging churches, civic groups, and volunteers assisting with recovery to document their service hours carefully.

President Donald J. Trump recently approved a major disaster declaration for six Kentucky counties: Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg, and Union Counties. This declaration paves the way for federal assistance to affected residents and communities, including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and low-interest loans for uninsured property losses.

“I’ve been in touch with Congressman Hal Rogers’s office, and they’ve made it clear how important these volunteer hours are,” Girdler said. “Volunteering time in any of the counties impacted by a disaster is more than just generosity—it helps offset costs for local governments as we work to rebuild our communities. I ask everyone to help spread the word and encourage others to track and report their hours.”

Under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, the value of donated resources—such as volunteer labor, supplies, and equipment—can offset the non-federal cost share of eligible projects. Properly documented volunteer efforts can directly reduce the financial burden on local governments during disaster recovery.

To ensure that volunteer contributions are recognized

  • maintain a sign-in sheet with volunteer names, dates, hours worked, and a description of tasks performed, and

  • submit these records to your county’s judge/executive’s office or emergency operations center.

For more information on applying for assistance and documenting volunteer efforts, visit FEMA.gov.

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Sen. Rick Girdler, R-Somerset, represents the 15th Senate District, including Pulaski and Russell Counties, which were impacted by the May 16 tornado.