United Way of Gloucester County knows that some of the area’s most vulnerable individuals are at risk and are having to make changes due to the spread of COVID-19. In response, our United Way is launching the Community Response and Recovery Fund to assist local community organizations and better serve our county residents.
We are already seeing the impact on the residents of our community and our local nonprofit agencies. Many organizations have had to change the way in which they provide services to the community as we all try to reduce the spread of this disease. This has included the closure of local child development centers, free tax preparation sites and support group meetings. Virtual and mobile services are being used when possible and community resources such as local food pantries are struggling to keep up with demand.
As a United Way, we are uniquely situated to be able to shift and address the needs of our community. In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 the Board of Directors has launched the “Live Healthy Micro-Grant program” which provides funding to local nonprofit organizations to purchase supplies and take preventive measures to stop and prevent the spread of this disease.
During this critical time, we understand the unprecedented challenges many in our communities are facing. During a public health crisis like COVID-19, we know vulnerable populations are more at risk to suffer from economic, social and emotional consequences. Incidents of mental health crises, domestic violence, homelessness, job loss, child abuse, and food insecurity will increase over the next several weeks and months as we work to contain and mitigate the virus.
At United Way of Gloucester County, we’re taking a lead role to work with our non-profit and funding partners to respond. To do so, we’ve set up the UWGC Community Response & Recovery Fund to help address the critical needs of our community through partnership with our local non-profit providers. Due to the risk of exposure to the virus that could be transmitted on items, only monetary donations are being accepted at this time.
To make a donation to the UWGC Community Response & Recovery Fund, COVID-19, please visit uwgcnj.org/donate, send donations by mail to 454 Crown Point Rd. Thorofare, NJ 08086 specially marked for the COVID-19 Response, or make a donation through the United Way of Gloucester County’s Facebook page.
These funds will only be utilized to assist individuals in Gloucester County, New Jersey. For more information please contact: Michael Gower, Executive Director, United Way of Gloucester County at 856-845-4303 x 14 or by email at mgower@uwgcnj.org.
The United Way of Gloucester County is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose activities are guided and managed by its local Board of Directors. It is the leader in building community capacity to foster individual well-being. With a focus on education, health and financial stability, the UWGC support over 25 programs and initiatives for Gloucester County residents. Visit uwgcnj.org for more information.
