The Wabash Valley COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund was developed by the United Way of the Wabash Valley and the Wabash Valley Community Foundation in order to quickly and effectively grant resources to community-based organizations to meet the emerging needs in our community resulting from the COIVD-19 pandemic. Today they are announcing a new opportunity available to those providing programs in the United Way’s rural service counties including Clay, Parke, Sullivan, or Vermillion Counties in Indiana or in Clark County Illinois.
The Relief Fund has made available a total of up to $112,000 to organizations including but not limited to healthcare, education, business or non-profit, that understand the need and can support local residents and families who are most affected by emerging health, economic, and social impacts of COVID-19. Organizations can apply for $20,000 – $40,000 to expand an existing program or develop a new program in any of the following impact areas designated as significant COVID-19 pandemic-related needs in our rural counties.
- Food and/or COVID-related Supplies, Service, Delivery
- Stress Relief and/or Behavioral Health
- Financial Stability Assistance
- Shelter Expenses
- Child Care Financial Assistance
- Engagement Programming
- Internet Access / Connectivity
“It was important for us to provide this specific funding opportunity to our rural counties. We want to ensure that this Relief Fund provides resources to as much of our United Way service area as possible,” explained Richard Payonk, Executive Director of the United Way of the Wabash Valley. “The need because of this pandemic doesn’t stop at county lines. And while we are one larger Wabash Valley community, we understand that help doesn’t look the same in every community. This funding allows for local organizations to develop or support what works in their specific area.”
Those seeking to apply can visit uwwv.org/covid for more information on the impact areas and application details. A virtual meeting will be held Monday, September 21st at 12 noon to discuss the funding available and provide orientation to applicants to the online application system. Applications are due by Monday, October 5th by 4:00 p.m.
Overall the Wabash Valley COVID-19 Relief Fund has been able to provide grants totaling over $955,000 to 95 different organizations since March. More information on the Relief Fund is available at uwwv.org/covid.
