PHASE 2 FUNDING IS NOW CLOSED “United Way of Fort Smith Area has now opened Phase 2 of the COVID-19 Community Response Fund Grants. Deadline to apply for this round is Monday, May 4th. We are offering 10-$2,500 micro-grants to area non-profits and faith based organizations that are working with individuals and families combating Food Insecurity such as feeding sites, Meals on Wheels Programs, non-perishable backpacks, etc.. in order to meet the food needs locally. United Way recently received the Blue and You Foundation Grant to help fund the fight against hunger during this unique and unprecedented time. We appreciate all the work area agencies and organizations are doing during this time to provide food to the hungry in our area.
If your organization receives a $2,500 micro-grant, the following information is required once grant monies have been spent or within six-months of receiving the funds.
- State the number of persons that were reached or lives directly impacted by funds provided through this grant.
- List two to three items that you consider to be the most significant outcomes from the use of funds from this grant.
- Describe the change to normal operating procedures or precautions your organization was forced to take due to COVID-19.”
Responding to Community Needs
As the COVID-19 crisis continues to unfold, individuals and families throughout our community will be impacted. As bars and restaurants close or reduce their capacities, schools and childcare centers are unable to open, and businesses see diminished revenues, the economic effects will be immense, particularly for those living paycheck to paycheck.
In an effort to proactively address the health and economic impact on our neighbors, we have convened a group of philanthropic and business partners to form a COVID-19 Community Response Fund, which will rapidly deploy resources to local agencies and organizations, getting dollars to where they are needed most.
About the Fund
The COVID-19 Community Response Fund will assist agencies and organizations in providing individuals and families who have been impacted by this pandemic, the assistance needed to stay in their homes and keep food on the table.
United Way and the Community Response Committee will work to get these dollars into our area quickly, funding nonprofit partners and service providers working directly with those impacted during this challenging time.
These micro-grants are for organizations responding to the immediate needs of vulnerable populations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Micro-grant applications will be accepted and grants will be awarded until available grant funds are expended.
Response Committee
Members of the advisory committee will work with United Way to quickly assess the needs and make rapid funding decisions to ensure a thorough and efficient process.