ANN ARBOR – United Way of Washtenaw County (UWWC) announced its COVID-19 Community Relief Fund (Fund) has invested an initial $454,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations and groups responding to critical needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic in Washtenaw County. The funds were deployed less than one week after the grant portal was opened and 25 organizations and groups received funding. Grant investments ranged from $50,000 to $10,000.
The Fund ‘s goal is $1,000,000 and has met 75% of its goal with help from local Foundations, individual donors and businesses.
“Recently released Health Department data continues to reveal the disproportionate impact of this virus on people and communities of color, which is why we are maintaining a strategic focus on equity as we make grant investments. ” shared Pam Smith, President and CEO of UWWC. “People in Washtenaw County need help now. We are working quickly as pledges are fulfilled to get the funds to areas of critical need.”
The largest award for this round went to Food Gatherers, which addresses food insecurity by serving 150+ food banks in Washtenaw County. Additional grants prioritized services in 48197/98 zip codes and rural areas to benefit people with low incomes, communities of color and to help nonprofits meet increased staffing demands.
“United Way took quick and decisive action at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and Food Gatherers is grateful for their generous support at this critical time as we respond to the unprecedented challenges of this pandemic, “said Eileen Spring, President of Food Gatherers.
Additional funding will be made available each week until all funds raised of the one-million-dollar goal are distributed.
For a full list of organizations awarded funding visit https://www.uwwashtenaw.org/covid-19-response-and-impact
IF you need HELP
Call 2-1-1 Our 24/7 hotline that can connect you to services in our community
IF you want to GIVE
Visit uwgive.org to donate to the Community COVID-19 Relief Fund. 100% of your gift will be used in our community to meet the emerging and critical needs in our community by our non-profit partners.
IF you need Food
For a full list of food distribution options, please Click Here
IF you want to VOLUNTEER
Visit VOLUNTEERWASHTENAW.org Help is needed in the community and there is a special Washtenaw County Coronavirus Volunteer response team – Medical and Non-medical people needed.
IF you want to ADVOCATE
Share the official messages regarding public health and safety to your friends and family.
ABOUT UNITED WAY OF WASHTENAW COUNTY
As part of our 99-year history, the United Way of Washtenaw County brings people, organizations and resources together to create a thriving community for everyone. Our focus areas of Health, Education and Financial Stability provide the building blocks to strengthen the community and create opportunities for individuals and families. Our Volunteer Center provides an easy online way for people to connect with nonprofits in the community and our 2-1-1 helpline refers more than 8,000 people annually to critically needed services. To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit uwgive.org.
