SAN ANGELO, Texas — The San Angelo Area Foundation has established a COVID-19 Community Response Fund to provide emergency grants to charitable organizations in the Concho Valley who have experienced increased service demands and/or have been impacted by the economic consequences as a result of the pandemic.
“Now, more than ever, support for our local charities is vital. During this critical time we are focused on how we can continue to prepare and support charitable organizations across our community as specific needs are identified,” Matt Lewis, SAAF president and CEO, said in a press release from the foundation. "The foundation is coordinating its efforts with the United Way of the Concho Valley, so our community donors and non-profits have one portal to donate and request emergency grant funding."
The impact of COVID-19 will be felt throughout the community for months and the fund is essential, offering critical assistance to charitable organizations most affected.
“The COVID-19 Community Response Fund is designed to complement other available resources and to expand local capacity to address the needs of vulnerable populations disproportionally stressed,” Lewis said.
An effective response, regardless of where a crisis occurs, requires sustained involvement on behalf of community members, responding charities, and other community organizations, the release states.
“In effort to quickly provide critical resources to our local charities, the Foundation’s Board of Directors has authorized up to $200,000 as a challenge grant, matching donations dollar for dollar up to $200,000,” Fred Hernandez, SAAF chairman, said.
Donations to the fund will be used to provide financial support for area charitable organizations that will work with individuals, families, and the community who may be most affected by the pandemic.
Details on how local charities can apply for assistance can be found on the San Angelo Area Foundation website, saafound.org. Prospective grantees are required to complete a short online application demonstrating the need for assistance.
Anyone who wishes to to contribute to the fund, can send donations online at saafound.org. Checks can be mailed to the San Angelo Area Foundation, 221 S. Irving St., San Angelo, TX 76903.
For more information, call 325-947-7071.
