NEW: EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND
The Southwest Florida Community Foundation, in partnership with the United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee, has created the SWFL Emergency Relief Fund to receive donations to help meet needs in our community related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This relief fund will provide flexible resources to 501(c)3 organizations in our area working with those who are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
The first phase of rapid-response grants will help meet basic needs and help increase resiliency in affected communities. Funds will be released on a rolling basis as fundraising continues throughout the outbreak and recovery phases of the crisis, making it possible to move resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs in subsequent funding phases.
Initial needs include providing food for children and families, delivering meals and supplies to the frail and elderly, and assistance with utilities and rent.
All donations are tax-deductible. Please consider a personal or corporate donation to this fund.
A Message from Jeannine Joy
As President and CEO of the United Way, I personally want to reaffirm the United Way’s commitment to the well-being of our community during this crisis. United Way team members are working diligently to answer calls on the United Way 2-1-1 Helpline to provide information about local cancellations, closings, and daily status for schools, government offices, day cares/camps and events. The United Way 2-1-1 Helpline has information on food distribution, safety precautions, social distancing and self-isolation. The United Way is also coordinating with our network of Human Service Partner Agencies to monitor available services during this time of crisis.
We will continue to serve our community and keep you updated. Please stay safe.
Sincerely,
Jeannine Joy
President and CEO
United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee
