Gov. Beshear, The Hope Initiative Dedicate 2 Homes for Western Kentucky Tornado Survivors

PRINCETON/MAYFIELD, Ky. (Sep. 2, 2025) - Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials and representatives from The Hope Initiative to present two families keys to new homes in Princeton and Mayfield following the 2021 tornadoes.

"After such heartbreak and loss, today is a day of healing and hope as we see these two families - who have been through so much - enter their new homes that will provide the safety and security they deserve," said Gov. Beshear. "These home dedications are a reminder of how Kentuckians take care of each other, and we will be here for our neighbors until every structure, home and life is rebuilt."

The homes dedicated in Princeton and Mayfield were constructed by The Hope Initiative, a nonprofit partner who has helped construct 55 new homes for tornado survivors. Funding was made available through the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which has committed over $23.1 million to help build 250 homes for tornado survivors in the region.

"Today, we helped a family heal and move forward in the wake of hardship and tragedy," said Princeton Mayor Brock Thomas. "We have so many reasons for hope in Princeton, and we're committed to the long-term success and well-being of our people."

"Being a single mother, I've struggled to stay afloat," said Susan McIntosh of Princeton. "You all have given me the opportunity to live life in a way I've never known. To be able to raise my kids in a safe place that's theirs is a blessing. You all have given me the opportunity to cook homemade meals for my family and actually sit down together at a table and talk about their day. To be able to put them all in their own beds, say prayers together and live a normal life. Thank you for giving us a chance, for believing in us when no one else ever has before. We so greatly appreciate it."

"Mayfield has come such a long way since the tornado of 2021," said Mayfield Mayor Kathy O'Nan. "We've had so many of these home dedications, meaning our people are finding their forever homes after losing so much. Our people have been through the worst, and they deserve the best."

"This house means more to me than anyone could ever know," said Trina Cruise of Mayfield. "Since the tornado, rent has doubled and it has been so hard to make ends meet. This home means we have something we can afford, something we can call our own. I am thrilled to have it. I just can't explain the gratitude in my heart to everyone who has made this possible. I am so excited."

Launched just days after the tornadoes in December 2021, the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund raised over $52 million with donations from over 150,000 individuals and businesses. The money raised helped pay funeral expenses for families of the deceased and provided assistance to survivors as well as local farmers. The remaining funds will be used to build houses.

Donations can now be made at TeamKentuckyStormReliefFund.Ky.gov, where all proceeds go directly to Kentucky communities affected by natural disasters.

Housing Efforts in Western Kentucky
Last year, Gov. Beshear announced 953 affordable rental units are coming to Western Kentucky. Next month, crews are expected to break ground on 66 new units in Mayfield.

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Editor's note: To view images from the home dedications, click here.