Fourteen human service agencies serving 194,407 families in desperate need throughout the Suncoast have been awarded emergency funding from the United Way Suncoast COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund during their initial round of funding
TAMPA, FL – April 14, 2020 – United Way Suncoast launched the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund on March 17, 2020 with an initial commitment of $250,000 to provide immediate emergency support to those most vulnerable to the economic and basic needs issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic and the uncertainty ongoing surrounding it.
With thousands across the Suncoast region out of work and struggling to access benefits from an overwhelmed system, members of our community need immediate help with access to food, emergency assistance, and other critical needs.
Human services agencies from throughout the five-county footprint of United Way Suncoast were invited to apply for funding to help support individuals and families dealing with financial hardships caused by coronavirus.
The first round of funding resulted in $322,094 going out to 14 human services agencies to serve 334,889 people, infants to seniors, in 194,407 households. The funds will support housing/shelter, food, childcare, financial stability and mental health services.
The second round of funding is now underway. As of April 14, more than 80 agencies had completed applications totaling in excess of $3,726,422.
“United Way Suncoast, our donors, and volunteers are working hard to serve our community at a time of greatest need. Our region’s business community and many generous individuals have contributed to our COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund to ensure that we have the immediate resources to support the most vulnerable in our community,” says United Way CEO Jessica Muroff.
About United Way Suncoast
United Way Suncoast fights for the education and financial stability of every person in the community through educational programs that give children the skills to succeed, helping adults achieve long-term financial stability and activating caring individuals through volunteerism. We are proud to serve the people of DeSoto, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties by operating and funding services and programs to help create a stronger, more vibrant community.
For more information, visit www.unitedwaysuncoast.org.
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