The Greenwich United Way’s Greenwich COVID-19 Community Relief Fund issued its fourth and largest round of grants totaling $94,103 to: Caritas of Port Chester, the Friends of Nathaniel Witherell, Neighbor to Neighbor and Pathways. Caritas and the Friends of Nathaniel Witherell are receiving their first ever grants from the Greenwich United Way.
After surpassing the initial target of $500,000, the fund recently increased its goal to $600,000 due to the ongoing pandemic and increasing challenges facing Greenwich residents.
The Greenwich United Way Board of Directors and Grants Committee volunteers, including Greenwich selectperson Jill Oberlander, continue to review proposals from local agencies, conducting a deep dive into each organization’s financials, and assessing the specific recovery-related needs.
“This grant – our first from the Greenwich United Way – enables us to provide home delivery of meals to low-income families in Greenwich,” said Bill Cusano, Executive Director of Caritas of Port Chester. “We work with local Greenwich delis and caterers to supplement the food we prepare, not only helping the recipients but also small businesses in our area to stay afloat during this challenging time. By working with Neighbor to Neighbor, we can purchase non-perishables in bulk to double orders, allowing both organizations to get better pricing.”
“More than half of our initially raised funds are at work helping Greenwich residents with more to come. The unmet needs mount every day as the crisis continues and the Greenwich United Way is here to support those in town who need it most,” said David Rabin, CEO of Greenwich United Way. “We are incredibly grateful for the many donors who have contributed to the fund, making it possible for us to quickly and effectively help our partner organizations and our most vulnerable population.”
This fourth round of grants brings the total to 13 and $272,103.
Earlier grants were issued to Abilis, Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, Filling in the Blanks, Food Rescue US, Jewish Family Services, Kids In Crisis, Meals On Wheels, River House and YWCA of Greenwich.
The Greenwich COVID-19 Community Relief Fund provides disaster relief and recovery efforts for Greenwich residents experiencing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 health crisis.
Grant applications are still being accepted for non-profit local agencies supporting relevant relief efforts and can be submitted to GUW’s Director of Community Impact, Robert Moore at rmoore@greenwichunitedway.