Menasha 2026 Tornado Response

The Wisconsin State Council Disaster Relief Team is coordinating a jurisdiction wide response to the devasating July 27th, 2026 tornado that impacted the greater Menasha community. Please refer to the resources and opportunities listed on this page as the official response of the State Council.

For questions regarding this information, please contact Paul Shepherd, Disaster Relief Chairman at disasterrelief@wikofc.org.

A Message from Disaster Relief Chairman Paul Shepherd

I want to share an update on our disaster relief efforts in the Menasha area, where our focus remains on supporting those affected in Winnebago, Calumet, and Outagamie counties. I recently joined the Unmet Needs Committee, which includes Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer Fox Cities, and Winnebago and Outagamie County Emergency Management, to assist with long-term recovery following the Menasha tornado.

Habitat for Humanity has set a goal of repairing more than 100 homes by December 15. To support this effort, I am asking Knights and councils across the area to help recruit volunteers and identify members with construction experience who can serve. Opportunities may be available during the workweek and on weekends, allowing Knights to help affected families and communities through Habitat for Humanity.

Planning is ongoing as information is gathered from affected communities. In the coming weeks, additional details will be shared, including location assignments and sign-up opportunities. Scheduling will be coordinated through “Get Connected” or “SignUp Genius” app, so Knights can register for specific tasks, dates, and locations.

The Disaster Relief Team also plans to purchase personal protective equipment for volunteers, including safety glasses, gloves, masks, and other protective gear. These items will be distributed at the work site or through local councils to volunteers who have signed up.

I encourage all Knights who can support this effort to sign up, complete a volunteer skill set worksheet, and invite fellow council members to participate. I will attend as many council business meetings as possible in the Green Bay Diocese during September and October to share updates and answer questions.

As always, thank you for your continued prayers, support, and willingness to serve our neighbors in need.

UPDATED: 09.25.2026

Statement from State Deputy Ross Larson
Wisconsin State Council State Deputy Ross L. Larson released the following message following the destructive tornado that impacted the Fox Valley communities:
 
Brother Knights,
 
Our hearts are with every family, parish, and community struck by the tornado in the Fox Valley. Our Bishop has asked us to place our hearts and hands at the service of one another, and that is precisely what the Knights of Columbus in Wisconsin are called to do.

We have also heard that some of our churches have been damaged. Our councils in the affected areas are checking on their brothers, their pastors, and their neighbors.

Wherever our parishes need hands, Knights will be there.

Please keep the injured, the displaced, and the first responders in your prayers. In this time of loss, let us walk together with Christ, who is our comfort and our hope.

Our Lady of Champion, pray for us.

Ross Larson
State Deputy
Wisconsin State Council

 

 Ways to Financially Support Disaster Relief in Menasha (Last Update: 08.08.2026 at 1:01 AM)
For Councils or Individuals wishing to financially support disaster relief in Menasha on behalf of the Wisconsin State Council of the Knights of Columbus, you may send donations to the Wisconsin State Office (4927 W Beltline Hwy Madison, WI 53711).

Please note ‘Menasha Tornado Response’ in the memo line.
*The Wisconsin State Council nor the Disaster Relief Team will never call you for donations or gift card payments over the phone or computer.* 

 

Donation Needs for Menasha (Last Update: 08.08.2026 at 1:01 AM)
MOST URGENT ITEM NEED: Tarps of all sizes. Please coordinate with the State Disaster Relief Team on this.
There are additional requested items which include:
  • Gatorade
  • Flashlights
  • Bungee cords
  • Lighters
  • Bug spray
  • Lighter fluid
  • D and C batteries (please no 9-volt batteries)
  • Deodorant
  • Shampoo
  • Bleach
  • Liquid hand soap
  • Cleaning sprays and disinfecting wipes
  • Rain ponchos


Please contact the State Disaster Relief Team to inform us of your worthy efforts, disasterrelief@wikofc.org.