June 24, 2025
Clark Mills, Town of Kirkland and Affected Areas Storm Relief Fund Established to Support Recovery After June 22 Storm
An emergency fund has been established by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, in partnership with Oneida County, in response to the severe thunderstorms and EF1 tornado that impacted Clark Mills, the Town of Kirkland, and surrounding areas on June 22, which caused widespread power outages and destruction to homes and buildings. All donations made to the Clark Mills, Town of Kirkland and Affected Areas Storm Relief Fund will directly support relief and recovery efforts.
Individuals, institutions, companies and other funders are encouraged to donate online at foundationhoc.org/stormrelief or by sending a check to the Community Foundation at 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502. Questions regarding corporate giving or other gift options should be directed to Nick Grimmer, chief development officer, at ngrimmer@foundationhoc.org.
The storms caused significant damage in several areas, with the Town of Kirkland and the Hamlet of Clark Mills among the hardest hit. As a result, three residents of Clark Mills, including six-year-old twin sisters, lost their lives.
"In the wake of such heartbreaking devastation, we are reminded of the deep strength and compassion that unite us as a community," said Alicia Dicks, President/CEO of the Community Foundation. "Our friends in the Town of Kirkland and the surrounding areas are facing unimaginable loss, and they need us—every one of us—now more than ever. This fund is more than financial support; it’s a lifeline of hope and a step toward healing for the lives and neighborhoods torn apart by this storm." Similar to past natural disaster relief, the Community Foundation has been coordinating with Oneida County government to ensure alignment with response efforts.
“Oneida County is here to help in every way possible,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr. “Like last year’s Rome Victim Recovery Fund, this assistance will help our residents recover from the damages of June 22nd’s tornado and storms. I want to thank the Community Foundation for once again partnering with us to quickly distribute this funding to the people who desperately need it. As always, we will get through this together—and be stronger for it.”
The Community Foundation is working with County officials to determine how funds will be distributed to those in need. Affected residents may be eligible to receive up to $5,000 in funding. Those seeking assistance can reach out to Oneida County at (315) 798-5502 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to begin the application process.
[Photos courtesy of Nancy L. Ford; The Daily Sentinel Company]
Oneida County Partners
