Nonprofit organizations are being stretched thin during the coronavirus pandemic. The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln and the United Way of Central Illinois are overseeing the COVID-19 Response Fund for the Greater Capital Region of Illinois.
“Human beings want to help one another, even when it’s such a crisis that we are experiencing right now. People just want to help their fellow man,” Community Foundation President and CEO John Stremsterfer said.
After starting with $50,000 seed funding from the two organizations, another $70,000 was raised for the cause.
“We aim to move resources quickly and efficiently without further burdening organizations providing critical services and support,” said United Way of Central Illinois President John Kelker.The fund will make other awards on a weekly basis. Donations in any amount are accepted.
The first grant, for $30,000, was given to the Central Illinois Foodbank to purchase non-perishable items. The large number of people thrown out of work due to social distancing measures is likely to result in a large number becoming food insecure.
“This grant from the COVID-19 Response Fund will provide critical support at a time of great need in our community,” Central Illinois Foodbank Executive Director Pam Molitoris said in a written statement.
Those local nonprofits wishing to apply for grants can go to the Community Foundation’s website.
Tax-deductible contributions to the COVID-19 Response Fund for the Greater Capital Region of Illinois can be made through the Community Foundation at www.CFLL.org or United Way by texting “HELPNOW” to 40403 or online at www.springfieldunitedway.org/covid19
Checks made payable to the COVID-19 Response Fund can be mailed to either:
Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln OR United Way of Central Illinois
205 S. Fifth St., Suite 530 1999 Wabash, Suite 107
Springfield, IL 62701 Springfield, IL 62704
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