On Mar. 23, the United Way of Lamar County (UWLC) opened a Covid-19 Crisis Fund to help those financially impacted by the coronavirus in our community.
Since that time, $49,837.96 in donations have been received and approximately $49,000 in assistance has been distributed. Two emergency grants were given to partner agencies including a $2000 grant to SafeT for hotel stays when their shelter was evacuated and another $5000 grant to Meals on Wheels to help with the influx of new clients.
UWLC also gave direct assistance to individuals and families. Close to $13,000 has been given in utility assistance to over 75 families; nearly $25,000 in rental assistance was given to at least 43 families; and over $3500 was spent on hotel stays to those quarantining or facing homelessness.
2500 masks were purchased locally by UWLC and distributed to all partner agencies who needed them.
Jenny Wilson, Executive Director of the United Way of Lamar County explains, “we want to thank everyone who donated to this fund and enabled us to help the community in this way. We have seen so many families struggle, and we wish we had the funds to continue to help them. Anyone who would like to donate and keep this fund open can do so on our website at www.lamarcountyuw.org or mail a check to PO Box 1, 75461. Please mark your donation covid-19 crisis fund.”
The United Way of Lamar County is also in the middle of their annual Fall Campaign to raise $500,000 to support their 22 partner agencies as well as their own programs and services. Wilson encourages everyone to join their Campaign to Live United and make a pledge or donation.
For more information, email jenny.wilson@lamarcountyuw.org or call 903-784-6642