Georgetown College Grad and Student Launch Kalla Foundation to Support Frankfort Community
Kalla Foundation Brings Flood Relief and Long-Term Support to Frankfort
Gabriel Kalla, 23, and his brother Braden, 19, established the Kalla Foundation in August 2025, just months after historic flooding devastated Frankfort, Kentucky. The foundation has quickly become a vital resource for residents recovering from the disaster,providing both immediate relief and a long-term vision for community rebuilding.
Responding to the Frankfort Flood
In July 2025, Frankfort experienced unprecedented rainfall, leading to widespread flooding that impacted hundreds of homes and businesses. The Kalla brothers, both Frankfort natives, witnessed the devastation firsthand and felt compelled to act. “We saw our community hurting, and we knew we had to do something,” says Gabriel Kalla. WKYT News reported extensively on the flooding and its aftermath.
Initial Relief Efforts
The Kalla Foundation promptly launched a fundraising campaign to provide essential supplies to those affected. Within weeks, they distributed water, food, cleaning supplies, and personal hygiene items to over 300 families. They partnered with local organizations,including the City of Frankfort and the United Way of Kentucky, to ensure efficient distribution and reach those most in need. The foundation also organized volunteer teams to assist with cleanup efforts, removing debris and mucking out flooded homes.
Beyond Immediate Aid: A Focus on Long-Term Recovery
Recognizing that recovery extends far beyond immediate relief, the Kalla Foundation shifted its focus to long-term rebuilding initiatives. They established a grant program to help homeowners cover the costs of repairs not covered by insurance. The foundation is also working with local contractors to provide affordable rebuilding services. The State-Journal highlighted the foundation’s commitment to sustainable recovery.
Addressing mental Health Needs
The Kalla Foundation understands the emotional toll that disasters take on individuals and communities. They have partnered with mental health professionals to offer free counseling services to flood survivors. These services are designed to address trauma, anxiety, and depression, helping residents cope with the long-term effects of the disaster. “We want to ensure that people have the support they need not just to rebuild their homes, but also to rebuild their lives,” explains Braden Kalla.
Community Impact and Future Goals
The Kalla Foundation’s efforts have been widely praised by Frankfort residents and community leaders. The foundation has raised over $500,000 in donations and mobilized hundreds of volunteers. Looking ahead, the Kalla Foundation plans to expand its programs to include disaster preparedness training and advocacy for improved flood mitigation infrastructure in Frankfort. They aim to become a model for community-led disaster recovery, demonstrating the power of local action and resilience.
To learn more about the Kalla Foundation and how to support their work, visit their website at https://www.kallafoundation.org.