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.
About the Fund
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.
3 Ways to Get Help
1 – General Emergency Relief Grant
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
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
2 – Insurance Deductible Grant
For homeowners who have submitted an insurance claim and need assistance covering deductible expenses related to tornado damage.
Deadline: August 31, 2026
Apply for a Deductible Grant
3 – Volunteer Support
Request Volunteer Assistance
To request assistance:
- Complete the online Volunteer Assistance Request Form
- Call 211 to speak with a resource specialist
Impacted residents can request support for needs such as debris cleanup, tree and stump removal, minor home repairs, property cleanup, and other recovery-related needs. The request form also includes an opportunity to share in-kind needs, such as household items, furniture, appliances, or other resources that community partners may be able to help provide.
Requests are coordinated through United Way of Marathon County’s 211 program and shared with partner organizations, including Team Rubicon and Habitat for Humanity, to help connect needs with available volunteers and resources.
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.
Tornado Relief Resource Flyer
View or download our Tornado Recovery Resource Flyer for information on financial assistance, volunteer support, mental health services, and other resources available to individuals and families impacted by the April 17 tornado. This guide is designed to help residents navigate recovery and will be updated on an ongoing basis.
Key dates to remember
May 22
Governor Evers submits letter to US President requesting a federal disaster declaration.
June 17
End of waived tipping fees from the town of Ringle and the state.
August 31
Deadline to submit Emergency Relief Fund Deductible Application for insured homeowners.
Thank you, donors!
We appreciate individuals and organizations who have given to the Relief Fund.
DCE School Fundraiser
FAQ
Who Can Apply?
Any Marathon County resident impacted by the April 17 tornado.
How Do I Apply?
Online via Grant Portal
Visit https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfoncw to apply online
Fillable PDF
Download the form and email it to [email protected].
Paper Application
Available at the Community Foundation office and Ringle Municipal Building.
What Can I Apply For?
General Relief Grant
For expenses such as temporary housing, groceries, medical needs, transportation, home cleanup and essential repairs, and replacement of basic needs.
$1,000 Insurance Deductible Grant
For homeowners who filed an insurance claim related to tornado damage. You may apply for both grants if eligible.
Can I Apply More Than Once?
Yes. You may submit additional requests if new or ongoing needs arise.
When Will I Hear Back?
As of May 22, 2026, the review and distribution schedule is as follows:
- Submit application by Friday evening
- Application reviewed the following week
- Applicant notified of the decision
- Check mailed by that Friday
Will I Get the Full Amount I Requested?
The committee reviews each application individually. In some cases, a partial award may be made if full funding is not available or if only some items qualify. Applicants will be notified of any partial funding decision along with the reasoning behind it.
Need Help With Your Application?
Contact Our Office
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 715-845-9555
Address: 200 Washington St. Suite 120, Wausau, WI 54403
Help our community recover
Every donation, large or small, brings hope and tangible help to families in Marathon County.
Every gift makes a difference
100% of donations to the Emergency Relief Fund support those impacted by the tornado.
SUPPORT IS ONE FORM AWAY
Please apply soon. Applications are reviewed weekly.
QUICK LINKS
DIRECTIONS
200 Washington Street Suite 120
Wausau, WI 54403
P: 715.845.9555
E: [email protected]
Confirmed in compliance with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.