HOUSTON, TX (July 28, 2020) – The Greater Houston area continues to see COVID-19 cases grow, and with them, the continued economic hardships for the region’s most vulnerable families and individuals. In responding to urgent community needs, generous foundations, corporations and individuals have contributed $17 million to the Greater Houston COVID-19 Recovery Fund. Among recent gifts are donations from ConocoPhillips ($200,000) and Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP ($125,000).
To date, the fund has distributed $12 million in grants to area nonprofits to address urgent needs among the community’s most vulnerable. Fund organizers are planning to distribute the remaining grant dollars in August and are appealing now to those who can donate to do so by July 31, 2020. Donations in any amount will help provide much needed assistance to those neighbors most impacted by the pandemic. Donations can be made at the fund website www.GreaterHoustonRecovery.org or by text to 4144. Anticipating a long-lasting economic impact, United Way of Greater Houston and Greater Houston Community Foundation will continue to work with community partners in the months to come to understand and assess the needs of those struggling.
The Greater Houston COVID-19 Recovery Fund is a joint effort by United Way of Greater Houston and the Greater Houston Community Foundation that was started to respond to the disaster conditions created by the sudden and unforeseen economic shutdown caused by COVID-19. As the pandemic continues to limit access to work and wages in Greater Houston, the lack of resources to obtain basic needs, including food, shelter and other human necessities, continues to distress the most vulnerable in our community. Fund organizers are using 100 percent of fund resources to address as many needs as possible, with organizers acknowledging that the region’s needs are far greater than any one fund can address.
The fund provides grants to trusted nonprofits and grassroots charitable organizations in the four-county region who have proven systems and experience in serving the most vulnerable in times of disaster. Grant makers utilize the most recent available data on community needs in determining where to direct funds. More information on how funds are used and the stories of those positively impacted through these grants is available at GreaterHoustonRecovery.org.
Those who need assistance are encouraged to call the 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE, the community’s key 24/7 information source during times of disaster. United Way’s 211 provides callers with the most updated information on assistance with utilities, food, housing or rent, crisis counseling, senior services, and more. Assistance through 211 can also be accessed through the following methods in the event of long wait times due to periods of heavy call volume:
· Visit 211texas.org to search resources online or chat online with a specialist
· Email help@unitedwayhouston.org for assistance
To give to the Greater Houston COVID-19 Recovery Fund visit www.GreaterHoustonRecovery.org or Text “WEHELP” to 41444.
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About United Way of Greater Houston
For nearly 100 years, United Way of Greater Houston has brought together diverse partners and approaches to address the complex challenges holding people back. We are a driving force for good that connects our neighbors with opportunities to thrive. We help our neighbors achieve financial stability. We provide services that support the physical and behavioral health of families and youth along with educational services that expand their skills and horizons. We provide a safety net that catches the most vulnerable. We manage every donation with care to make the greatest impact across the four-county region of Fort Bend, Harris, Montgomery and Waller counties. We connect neighbors with help 24/7 through our 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. For more information, please visit, www.unitedwayhouston.org.
About Greater Houston Community Foundation
Greater Houston Community Foundation, one of Houston’s largest grant makers and leaders in philanthropic impact, has served the greater Houston community for 25 years. The organization supports high profile community and donor initiatives with the most comprehensive philanthropic resources, expertise, and innovative platforms. Greater Houston Community Foundation is widely considered the go-to partner for high-profile philanthropic partnerships in the Greater Houston area, including major disaster relief initiatives, such as the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund as well as Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. Greater Houston Community Foundation leads collaborations that support the wellbeing and vitality of Houston, including Understanding Houston, in partnership with Rice Kinder Institute. The Foundation provides individuals, families, corporations, foundations, and advisors with the ability to expand their philanthropic impact. For more information, please visit, www.ghcf.org.