Mercantile Bank of Michigan recently gave $7,500 to United Way BCKR to support the Kalamazoo Flood Relief Fund from tax savings resulting from federal tax reform approved by Congress last December.

“It’s one way for us to give back,” said Nancy Turtle, Senior Vice President and Community Bank President for Mercantile Bank.

“Flood relief is very top of mind when it occurs, but the waters recede, and many people are still affected long-term,” she added. The relief fund, Turtle said, provides a means for Mercantile Bank to help flood victims recover.

United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region and the Kalamazoo Community Foundation started the Kalamazoo Flood Relief Fund together with lead contributions of $10,000 each. Additional gifts from generous individuals, businesses and other organizations, including Mercantile Bank, have raised more than $285,000. Fund dollars are directed to local agencies working with individuals and families who need help in the wake of historic flooding in Kalamazoo in February.

Turtle said supporting United Way and flood relief was an easy decision. “United Way serves so many essential organizations. They do such great things,” she said.

Chris Sargent, President and CEO of United Way BCKR, praised Mercantile Bank for setting a grand example for handling the windfall from tax reform.

“Investing in our community and in people’s lives pays off both immediately and long-term,” he said. “We invite other businesses to follow Mercantile Bank’s lead and make a gift from their tax savings that has a lasting impact.”

Individuals and families who need assistance due to flooding should call 2-1-1. The local 2-1-1 service, managed by Gryphon Place, can connect callers with agencies to address their specific needs.

Many requests involve multiple needs, including water removal; replacing damaged furnaces and water heaters; mold remediation; debris removal; utility assistance; replacing appliances, furniture and clothing; and providing hotel vouchers for families who need shelter while their homes are repaired.

The public can add tax-deductible donations to the Kalamazoo Flood Relief Fund through United Way, with 100 percent of their gifts going to flood recovery:
• Online at www.changethestory.org, select the DONATE button and fill out the form. Be sure to check the box “Please direct my gift to the Kalamazoo Flood Relief Fund.”
• Mail or drop off a check made out to “United Way BCKR” at UWBCKR’s office, 709 S. Westnedge Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007. Be sure to write Kalamazoo Flood Relief Fund on the memo line of the check.
• Call United Way at (269) 343-2524 to ask about other ways to make a contribution.