More than $2 million pledged to help Northeast Florida during the COVID-19 outbreak

In the middle of a historic public health crisis, Northeast Florida donors have pledged more than $2 million to Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund to support the immediate needs caused by COVID-19.

To help those most affected by COVID-19 non-profits joined together to activate Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund, The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, Jessie Ball duPont Fund, Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida, United Way of Northeast Florida and United Way of St. Johns County.

Many families are now facing unemployment, reduced hours at work, lost wages and tips, mounting bills to pay and scarcity of everyday resources, the Relief Fund is serving as a critical safety net, according to the release.

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE TO FLORIDA’S FIRST COAST RELIEF FUND

Online: unitedwaynefl.org/COVID19response By mobile phone: Text COVID19RELIEF to 40403 By check: Pay to the order of United Way of Northeast Florida and mail to P.O. Box 41428, Jacksonville, FL 32203-1428

** Be sure to note “Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund” on the check.

HOW TO APPLY FOR FUNDING Only nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply. Application forms are available online at unitedwaynefl.org/COVID19response and each of the partner websites.

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION Looking to share information on volunteer needs or find out how you can safely volunteer during COVID-19? Visit unitedwaynefl.org/volunteer.

GET HELP NOW United Way’s 211 hotline continues to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, and officials and community organizations are working throughout Northeast Florida to ensure crucial needs are met. Community members in need of assistance are encouraged to dial 2-1-1, where a team of information specialists are available 24/7. You can also dial 904-632-0600 to access a United Way 211 call center specialist. A COVID-19 information directory is available at unitedwaynefl.org/covid19resources.

The relief fund is going towards the following things for families on the first coast.

• Food assistance, non-food items and supplies
• Short term housing assistance
• Financial assistance
• Child-care support
• Medical, safety supplies and equipment
• Technology support

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