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The United Way of Central Missouri on Friday announced a COVID-19 Response Fund to support local nonprofit health and human service agencies in its service area.
The fund is to support agencies experiencing a surge in demand for services from people significantly affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
"It's critical that these organizations have the resources they need to continue to operate at the highest capacity," according to a United Way news release.
Donations will support the agencies ensuring Central Missourians can access basic needs in this time of crisis.
Donations can be made by visiting the local United Way website at unitedwaycemo.org or by texting MIDMOCOVID to 41444. Checks made payable to United Way of Central Missouri can be mailed to the United Way office at 205 Alameda Drive, Jefferson City, Mo., 65109. Checks should note "COVID-19 Response Fund" in the memo field.
Funds raised will support intermediate and long-term crisis-related efforts for nonprofit organizations in Camden, Cole, Maries, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan, Osage, Phelps and southern Callaway counties.
One hundred percent of donations to the fund will go to help the Central Missouri community respond and recover at this time of uncertainty.
Additionally, the local organization's board approved an immediate grant opportunity for $50,000 for its 28 partner agencies. Partner agencies are eligible to apply for the Emergency COVID-19 Grant to be used to serve the most vulnerable in our community for immediate, critical basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, child care, utility assistance, etc.
United Way is leading the coordination of volunteer opportunities for agencies. Agencies that have a need for volunteers should contact Tabatha Brightwell by email at [email protected]. Individuals looking for volunteer opportunities should visit the United Way website at unitedwaycemo.org.
The local United Way will continue to focus on providing the support needed to navigate these current challenges. People should stay tuned to its website.
Those looking for assistance and resources should call 211 or 1-800-427-4626. A 211 operator is standing by 24/7 to connect individuals with resources in our community.