In a historic decision today, the Oklahoma City Council unanimously approved a $250 million emergency donation fund aimed at rebuilding and revitalizing Northwest Oklahoma City neighborhoods severely damaged by the recent flash floods that swept through the area late Monday night.
The fund—one of the largest local disaster relief donations in the city’s history—will be directed toward housing repairs, infrastructure restoration, and small business recovery in the hardest-hit communities, including Lakehurst, Warr Acres, and Nichols Hills.
Mayor David Holt described the move as “a moment of compassion and unity for our city.”
“This fund is not just about repairing what’s broken—it’s about rebuilding hope,” Holt said during the emergency session. “The people of Northwest OKC have shown incredible resilience, and now the city is standing firmly behind them.”
The decision follows days of intense rain that left hundreds of homes underwater, forced evacuations, and prompted Governor Kevin Stitt to declare a state of emergency in Oklahoma County.
According to city officials, the $250 million fund will be distributed in phases:
- $120 million for residential repair and relocation assistance
- $80 million for infrastructure, including roads, drainage, and power systems
- $30 million for small business recovery grants
- $20 million for long-term flood prevention and drainage system upgrades
Residents are expected to begin applying for assistance as early as next week through a new online portal.
Local resident Tanya McMillan, whose family lost most of their belongings in the flood, expressed gratitude after the announcement.
“We didn’t know where help would come from,” she said. “Now we finally feel like the city sees us and cares.”
Emergency crews and volunteers continue to work around the clock to clear debris and restore basic utilities. Officials have urged the public to stay alert for ongoing flood warnings and to support relief efforts through local charities and donation drives.
The City Council emphasized that accountability and transparency will guide every stage of the recovery plan, with monthly progress reports set to be released to the public.
As Oklahoma City begins its path to recovery, this unprecedented show of unity has offered a spark of hope to thousands rebuilding their lives from the ruins.
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