The Foundation for Delaware County announced the first round of grants awarded from the Delaware County COVID-19 Response Fund, created last month by the community foundation in response to the current pandemic crisis. The grants come as the foundation crossed the $300,000 fundraising mark, including donations of as little as $10 contributed to help Delaware County nonprofits at the front lines supporting vulnerable residents who are bearing the greatest impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The first wave of grants, totaling $73,655, was distributed to 11 nonprofits, each of which will receive a support grant to address emergency needs outlined in their proposals to the foundation. Grants are being awarded on a rolling basis during the coronavirus crisis, as donations continue to roll in. To date, the Response Fund has received more than 40 requests for funding; eligible nonprofits need only apply once.
“The Delaware County COVID-19 Response Fund is a rapid response solution to provide resources to frontline organizations that are delivering emergency assistance, such as food security, healthcare, and childcare for the most vulnerable residents in this unprecedented crises,” said Mike Magnavita, Chair of the Delaware County COVID-19 Response Fund and President of the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union. “The selected organizations are deeply trusted organizations in their communities. They inspire us – and we know they are just a sampling of the work we can and must support moving forward.”
Joanne Craig, Vice President for Programs at the foundation, adds “The needs in the community are great and growing much larger than the total amount of the Response Fund now. The scope of this crisis will require aid from many different public and philanthropic sources. The foundation continues to encourage everyone to give if they are able – no gift is too small. Now is the time to double down for our community.”
Support for the Response Fund has climbed over $300,000, including an initial grant of $100,000 from the foundation. Foundation staff and an advisory committee chaired by Magnavita are conducting the ongoing review of applications and selections.
According to Craig, “This first group of grantees provides a diversity of leadership, strategy and experience that represents the heart and soul of the Delaware County nonprofit community. These organizations are doing remarkable work in the county. They are trusted organizations that can deliver immediate services during this crisis to meet the basic needs of vulnerable residents with food, childcare services and essential supplies.”