COVID-19 is impacting everyday life and we are grateful to be in a situation that has allowed us to continue to serve. Almost ten weeks ago, United Way of Forsyth County began efforts to respond to the needs of our community during this crisis. Below are a few of the ways we have adapted and stepped forward during this time.
-
Facilitated a meeting of local food pantries and programs in mid-March to begin an organized effort of food distribution
-
Established a COVID-19 Response Fund to raise funds to help our most vulnerable individuals and families who may have experienced job loss, a reduction in work hours and are facing unforeseen struggles caused by the impact of the virus. As of today, due to the generosity of our donors and a dollar for dollar match, more than $50,000 has been raised to support this effort.
-
Established a COVID-19 Resource Guide available from our website at:
www.unitedwayforsyth.com/covid-19-resources -
Provided PPE supplies to frontline healthcare providers at Georgia Highlands Medical Services
-
Attend Forsyth County Emergency Management’s weekly up-date meetings
-
Collect updates from food pantries and programs regarding food distribution, clients served and current needs. This information is shared weekly to keep those organizations providing meals informed, connected and aware of food needs and services throughout our community
-
Provide emergency financial assistance to Forsyth County individuals and families to help with rent, utilities and other emergency needs
-
Facilitate weekly communication between partner and community agencies, allowing them to stay informed about services available to the community and how those services are being delivered from week to week
-
Our volunteers and staff have distributed bags of toiletry items as well as school and art supplies to families on the Forsyth County Schools bus routes delivering meals to students. These items have also been provided to other local non-profits for distribution to their clients. So far, more than 1,000 bags have been distributed and we’re still going
-
And the work continues!
As recovery begins, many of our residents will continue to face challenges. As always, United Way and our partners will be there for support. We continue to ensure our partner agencies are funded so our residents have access to the services they need to be successful. Just last year, we invested $1.3 million into programs supporting Education, Health, Financial Stability and Basic Needs. The need for these services and programs does not stop due to a pandemic, and neither do we!
When you give or volunteer through United Way, you are joining a community who is giving back so others can get ahead. We hope you will join us as we rise to the challenge. Please consider making a financial contribution today at: www.unitedwayforsyth.com/donatenow
Thank you for doing your part to support our community today and every day! Together we are stronger, together we
LIVE UNITED!