United Way Announces COVID-19 Relief Fund

The United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties (UWVFC) has announced a COVID-19 Relief Fund aimed at supporting nonprofit response efforts due to COVID-19. The UWVFC Board announces a $10,000 contribution to the fund and is seeking donations from community members and businesses. The fund will be distributed in waves to address the evolving needs of our community. The first wave of funding will be distributed by April 30, 2020 to nonprofit organizations providing essential services including: food, rent/mortgage, utilities, and childcare assistance.

“To date, we have seen a 200% increase in inquiries to our 2-1-1 Free First Call for Help for community resources,” said Rene Bell Adams, Board Chair. Resources are updated throughout the day to include food pantries, childcare sites, nonprofit site closures, and other vital resources for community members.

“We anticipate the need will be like nothing we have experienced before and that calls for our response to be like nothing we have addressed before. The United Way Board of Directors issues a heartfelt appeal to our community to help us double the United Way’s contribution. This will allow us to provide necessary resources for our partners who are themselves experiencing unprecedented needs and are stretched incredibly thin,” said Adams.

UWVFC has already raised 18% of the $10,000 community goal. Nonprofit organizations have stepped up to continue to provide essential services like childcare, food assistance, telehealth services, and other gaps due to the effects of COVID-19.

Applications for relief funding are already available on the United Way’s website: uwvfc.communityforce.com. Eligible organizations will meet the following criteria: be a nonprofit organization, serve Flagler and Volusia residents, and addressing a specific need related to COVID-19.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to disseminate these gifts to our community as soon as possible and bring hope during an unprecedented time thanks to those in our community who are able to give,” said Courtney Edgcomb, President.

To donate to the UWVFC COVID-19 Relief Fund, text Virus2020 to 41444 or go to https://bit.ly/UWVFCCovid.