Following a flood that destroyed Vanport, Ore., in 1948, a plea for financial help for colleagues was sent out in the July DKG News. More than $3,000 swelled into what became the Emergency Fund after action at the 1948 National Convention Emergency Fund collection, now traditional events at conventions and conferences. This fund continues to grow and DKG continues to assist our sisters in need.

In 2005-06 DKG gave an all time high of $224,000 aiding 448 members, most in the gulf coast states. In nine months of 2008-09 approximately $80,000 has helped members with damages from hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. Many of these recipients were Iowa members.

.What is the process for requesting Emergency Fund Assistance?,.

Members who sustain major losses from floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and other natural disasters may be recommended by their chapter and state presidents to receive a $500 Emergency Fund Award. The chapter president informs the state president of members affected by the natural disaster. The state president contacts the Executive Coordinator with the name of the member along with the member's chapter and exact nature of the disaster sustained along with the current mailing address. The Executive Coordinator approves the request and mails a check from International headquarters.

Contribute to the Emergency Fund using Form 43 through chapter and state organization treasurers or send directly to The Delta Kappa Gamma International Emergency Fund, PO Box 1589, Austin, TX 78767-1589