South Plains COVID-19 Response Fund
During times of trouble, The Community Foundation of West Texas and Lubbock Area United Way are uniquely positioned to provide support to the wide range of local non-profit organizations that serve those most in need. At this time, we are faced with a different kind of disaster than ever before. And, while we hope for the best, we must prepare for the worst.
COVID-19 is wreaking havoc in the lives of an extraordinary number of people in our community:
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· For those who are dependent on hourly wage jobs to make ends meet, the impact of a short or prolonged time with few, if any, work hours has a devastating impact on their ability to provide for the basic needs of their family.
· School closures will have a significant impact on children who are food insecure and on families who will struggle to find and pay for childcare so that they can continue to work.
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· Many of the nonprofit organizations that are working tirelessly to provide help are also suffering financially and are struggling to provide much-needed services in ways that protect the health and wellbeing of their staff and those they serve.
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The Community Foundation of West Texas and Lubbock Area United Way have joined together to create a COVID-19 Response Fund that will rapidly deploy resources to community-based organizations tackling the effects of the coronavirus outbreak in the South Plains region.
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The COVID-19 Response Fund has been established to provide flexible resources to 501c3 organizations working with local communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of this outbreak.
Rapid response operating grants will help fund human services organizations that have deep roots in the community and strong experience working with vulnerable populations.
We anticipate multiple phases of funding to address both the acute needs from the outbreak and the longer-term impacts of recovery.
The Community Foundation will administer grants from the Response Fund in partnership with Lubbock Area United Way and in close collaboration with our partners.
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FAQ
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I'm an individual who has been affected by COVID-19. Can this Fund help me?
The fund was specifically created for community-based organizations that are directly supporting local residents and families who are most affected by emerging health, economic, and social impacts. For individuals looking for support, 2-1-1 Texas is a great resource. Learn more on their website 211texas.org or call their social service hotline at 2-1-1 or (877) 541-7905.
I'm a small business owner who has been affected by COVID-19. Can this Fund help me?
Based upon the charitable structure of the Response Fund, our grants are limited to 501c3 non-profit organizations. The Lubbock Chamber of Commerce website has many local and small business resources linked on their page to provide assistance in a number of areas: http://www.lubbockchamber.com/covid-19-info-resources. Visit SBA.gov to learn more about the small business loan options and opportunities they offer.
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I want to donate. Can I restrict my funding to a prioritized grantee?
To ensure we move resources as efficiently as possible and respond to the needs of communities most impacted, we are not considering restricted donations at this time.
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Should I give to this Response Fund instead of making other donations?
This is a critical time for so many, including the non-profit organizations that have benefitted from your giving in the past. Please continue to give to organizations you regularly support, as now is the time to double down for our community.
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How else can I contribute to my community other than financially?
Many organizations still need the help of local volunteers during this time. Email the Volunteer Center of Lubbock at volunteer@volunteerlubbock.org or visit volunteerlubbock.org to learn how you can make a difference in your community.
What will NOT be included in the first phase of funding?
Based upon the charitable structure of the Response Fund, our grants are limited to 501c3 non-profit organizations. We are not able to fund individuals or businesses directly, labor unions, or other 501c4, 501c5, and 501c6 organizations.
Thank You Donors!
Through your generosity, the Response Fund will equip our frontline community organizations to address both current needs and the long-term needs of South Plains residents.