Local nonprofits join forces to establish fund to cope with COVID-19 crisis

The Wayne County Community Foundation in conjunction with local private foundations, has established and provided initial funding for a new fund to support local non-profit organizations on the front line of COVID-19 response efforts.

Through the Wayne County Emergency Response Fund, the Foundation will make a limited number of one-time grants to nonprofit organizations addressing the emerging needs of the community – including, but not limited to, support for lost wages, housing security, food security, and expanding access to medical services. Organizations requesting funding should complete the online application at www.WayneCountyCommunityFoundation.org. If approved, grants will be processed within 10 days of application receipt.

“We want to do everything we can to help Wayne County citizens get through this very challenging time” said Sara Patton, Executive Director of WCCF. “Even though the situation may feel overwhelming, we are so truly fortunate to be a part of a community where people come together to make a positive difference in one another’s lives.”

WCCF Trustees created the Fund with unrestricted assets as well as generous personal contributions from a number of Trustees. Local private foundations, including the Noble Foundation, Seaman Family Foundation, the Ralph R. & Grace B. Jones Foundation, and the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, have joined with WCCF to bring the Emergency Response Fund to the $100,000 level.   WCCF Board President, Steve Matthew, commented: “We take seriously the Foundation’s mission to provide philanthropic leadership to the community. This is a time when leadership really matters, and I am proud of our partners in the community for their strong support.”

Since 1978, the Wayne County Community Foundation has been working to strengthen the community we all share. It is a nonprofit charitable community organization. Since inception, WCCF has awarded over $78 million in grants and scholarships back into the community. For more information about the Foundation and the Emergency Response Fund, call 330.262.3877 or visit www.WayneCountyCommunityFoundation.org.