United Way has launched a fund to address both the urgent and long-term needs of North Texans in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic –the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund.
United Way partners Texas Instruments (TI) Foundation, Bank of America, McKesson Foundation and Perot Foundation have each made initial seed funding commitments of $250,000. Wells Fargo Foundation and Hoblitzelle Foundation have each donated $100,000, and more contributions from individuals, philanthropic, and corporate partners are expected to follow.
United Way is working with community leaders, including the Dallas County Health Department, funders, school districts, and local service providers to identify resource and service gaps to begin planning for long-term recovery. Proceeds raised will go directly to community-based organizations assisting those most impacted by this pandemic.
“We’re inviting individuals and corporations to join us in this effort to address immediate and urgent needs of North Texans as well as long-term challenges that will affect education, income, and health across our community,” said Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. “Even as we confront uncertainty and volatility, together, we will live united to lend support and emerge stronger than before.”
United Way is gathering and compiling data directly from front-line service providers to determine immediate needs and projections for mid- and long-term challenges. This gathered intelligence will guide the fund, designed to be flexible and responsive to the changing needs of our community. On March 23, United Way will launch a brief application and vetting process, prioritizing the greatest needs and engaging funders along with corporate and community partners to review and make funding recommendations.
The populations served by United Way are those most vulnerable to economic downturns and health crises. The fund will address current community impact concerns, including:
- Shortage of supplies to meet essential health and safety needs (paper goods, hand sanitizer, cleaning products, and potentially food).
- Extended closures of school, childcare, and after-school programs, impacting children’s access to breakfast and lunch programs and parents’ ability to work.
- The immediate economic impact for many workers, particularly in the service, retail, and travel industries.
“Supporting our communities has been a hallmark of our company since TI was founded 90 years ago,” said Andy Smith, executive director of the TI Foundation. “And our communities need our help now more than ever. These grants will directly help many families and individuals whose lives are being severely disrupted by these uncertain times.”
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