Initial Round of COVID-19 Relief Grants from United Community Relief Fund Announced
Capital City Today
Initial Round of COVID-19 Relief Grants from United Community Relief Fund Announced
LAKELAND, FL – The United Way of Central Florida and GiveWell Community Foundation announced today the initial round of United Community Relief Fund grant recipients. In total, $310,056.27 was awarded to the following nonprofit organizations:
The United Community Relief Fund was established in March 2020 to support local nonprofit organizations serving those most vulnerable to the economic and health-related impacts triggered by a community crisis. GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) and United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) have collaborated to raise money for the Fund and identify potential grant recipients.
The distribution of resources from the United Community Relief Fund is guided by a committee comprised of GWCF and UWCF staff and volunteer leaders to address the most immediate and urgent needs within the community.
“There are many individuals in our community who have been impacted medically and financially by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Christina Criser Jackson, president and CEO of UWCF. “I am continuously inspired by the American spirit and all of those who have rallied and contributed to helping those less fortunate. These investments will go to agencies on the frontline to make a direct impact.”
“We are extremely thankful for the individuals who are making such great sacrifices to provide necessary services for our community,” said GWCF president and CEO John Attaway. “Thank you to the donors who have made such generous contributions to help others. Your support will allow us to respond quickly to the community’s developing needs.”
A second phase of fundraising for the United Community Relief Fund is underway. So far, more than $125,000 has been raised for the next round of grants to local nonprofits.
To learn more and to donate to the United Community Relief Fund, please visit unitedcommunityrelief.org.
###
About the United Way of Central Florida
United Way of Central Florida works to improve lives and strengthen our community by identifying gaps in services and providing solutions. UWCF works with qualified partners to improve the health, education and financial stability of people in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties. United Way works to amplify donor dollars with local matches, convene partners to improve efficiencies and broker services that produce the best return on investment in the areas of most critical need. United Way believes no one can do their best if they are hungry, sick or in pain. To learn more, visit uwcf.org or call 863-648-1500.
About the GiveWell Community Foundation
GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) works with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to build a stronger community throughout Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties and beyond through charitable funds and competitive grant cycles. The foundation is home to more than 300 charitable funds and the Impact Polk and Empower Polk grant cycles. GWCF has awarded $209 million in grants since its founding in 1997. To learn more about GWCF, visit givecf.org or call 863-683-3131.
Media Contacts:
Katherine Fitzwater Dave Walter
863-944-1412 863-683-3131
Vice President, Marketing & Communications Communications Manager
United Way of Central Florida GiveWell Community Foundation
Katherine.Fitzwater@uwcf.org dwalter@givecf.org