A Disaster Relief Fund in Smith County

TYLER – Smith county is preparing to help residents in time of disaster. Smith County commissioners on Tuesday approved an agreement with the East Texas Communities Foundation to create the East Texas Disaster Relief Fund. The foundation will pass donations along to local nonprofits, organizations, the county or any other entity that needs the funds. The money can be used for planning and preparation, first response, recovery and rebuilding after a disaster or community crisis. Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran said creating the disaster fund falls in line with the county’s focus on improving its emergency preparedness and response in the upcoming fiscal year.