Centre Foundation opens applications for COVID-19 relief funding. Here’s how to apply
To help area nonprofits struggling amid the pandemic, Centre Foundation has opened phase two of its COVID-19 ACTION Fund, which includes $150,000 in funds.
The philanthropic organization opened its COVID-19 response fund with a balance of $375,000 earmarked to provide operational and programmatic support to local nonprofits amid the pandemic. The first round of grants provided $100,000 to 14 organizations to help address immediate health and human service needs resulting from the coronavirus outbreak.
“We are pleased to open our second round of funding to support local organizations’ operational and programmatic needs resulting from the ongoing economic uncertainty surrounding the pandemic,” Molly Kunkel, executive director of Centre Foundation, said in a release. “We are acutely aware of how the pandemic has created financial uncertainties for valued programs and organizations in our area. We encourage those who are struggling to provide services but who have lost income due to canceled fundraisers or program revenue to apply for these funds.”
After canceling its annual fall fundraiser, the Howard Volunteer Fire Company was awarded $5,000 in the first round of grants to support operating expenses, specifically its EMS service.
“We greatly appreciate the Centre Foundation’s efforts to help out locally during this crisis, as well as with the annual Centre Gives campaign,” Howard Fire Company President Mark Ott said. “The impact of these programs are invaluable as we struggle to keep our doors open and respond to emergencies.”
The AIDS Resource Alliance was awarded $2,600 to address food insecurity resulting from financial hardship due to the pandemic. Discovery Space was awarded $5,000 to continue the creation of PPE at the Rivet.
The second phase includes $150,000 in funds to meet any operational or program needs of nonprofits that have been disrupted by the virus and statewide shutdown. Applications, which may be submitted online, will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Sept. 11. Funds will be awarded in October.
For more information on Centre Foundation grant programs, visit centre-foundation.org, email info@centre-foundation.org or call 237-6229.
Phase three of the grant program is expected to become available in late 2020 and will be geared toward strategic planning.
