Immediate Impact Alert: COVID-19 Outbreak
It continues to be an increasingly difficult time for individuals, families and businesses as our community navigates the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Schools have transitioned to online learning, events are being canceled, businesses have been forced to close, people are unable to work and many nonprofit organizations are experiencing unexpected financial challenges. Organizations are also seeing an increased need to provide emergency services to our community's most vulnerable. As the urgent health and economic needs continue to rise, this outbreak is undoubtedly impacting all residents in Stark County and beyond.
In response to the outbreak, Stark Community Foundation’s Immediate Impact Alert Fund has been activated. This fund is a flexible funding source that allows the Foundation, other local foundations and community members to immediately respond during times of critical need. All monies contributed to this fund by the local community will be used to support area organizations affected by COVID-19.
In partnership with Sisters of Charity Foundation of Canton, a mini-grant application has been created and organizations on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response can now apply for funding. All grant applications received are shared with the philanthropic community as a way to keep local funders informed of the growing need and to streamline the requests for financial support. Applications are reviewed on an on-going basis and grants will soon be awarded to local organizations for programs that provide assistance to seniors, childcare for first-responders, emergency financial assistance (utilities, rent and mortgage assistance), food, mental health services and shelter. Grants are made possible by the generous support of local foundations and the Immediate Impact Alert Fund.
How can you help support your community?
If you are interested in making an immediate impact in your community, you can make a gift of any size to the Immediate Impact Alert Fund. Here’s how you can show your support:
- Make a gift online with your credit or debit card at www.starkcf.org
- Write a check to Stark Community Foundation with Immediate Impact Alert: COVID-19 Response written on the memo line. Checks can be mailed to Stark Community Foundation, 400 Market Avenue North, Suite 200, Canton, Ohio 44702.
- Donate stock by calling the Foundation at 330-454-7992.
- Current Stark Community Foundation fundholders may make grant recommendations to the Immediate Impact Alert Fund from their charitable funds through the Donor Portal, mail or email to donorservices@starkcf.org.
