COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund Already Making a Difference

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Tuesday, 21 April 2020 16:54

The first round of COVID-19 fund applications from United Way Oxford have been approved supporting three local front line service providers.

OXFORD COUNTY - The first round of COVID-19 fund applications from United Way Oxford have been approved.

Last month, they launched the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. The fund was established for front line service providers to have access to resources required to address the growing needs around accessing food, shelter, transportation, and coping with mental health and isolation issues during this stressful time. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to address the needs of vulnerable populations here in Oxford County.

Executive Director of United Way Oxford Kelly Gilson says thanks to the support of the community, we are proud to report that three grant applications have been reviewed and approved for funding.

“Normally, our application process takes months, but we are turning this around quickly because of the immediate need. Behind the scenes, we are having continuous conversations with many not-for-profits across the County to understand their concerns and their needs and our Community Impact Council volunteers will continue to meet virtually and review applications as they are received, as
new applications are coming in on a regular basis."

This round of funding included partnerships with the Oxford Community Health Centre (OCHC) Housing and Outreach, Women’s Employment Resource Centre and Community Outreach Table, and Ingersoll & District Inter-Church Lunch Bunch and STICH Supper programs.

Because of United Way Oxford’s flexible funding, made possible by your support:

- Oxford Community Health Centre Outreach and Housing team are able to address barriers including transportation, food security, and access to basic home supplies for those in need.

- Women’s Employment Resource Centre and Community Outreach Table have teamed up to provide additional outreach and food support, as the demand for their services have increased. Both organizations will be able to provide more sustainable food items, snacks, personal care items and clothing to their clients.

- Ingersoll & District Inter-Church is working hard to continue offering delivery of weekly hot meals and other food items, to members of the community through the Lunch Bunch and STICH Supper Club. Helping those most vulnerable stay home
and safe.

Gilson says they were blown away by the community's support.

“We are resilient because we are a community that cares about one another. It is our role to aid in the ongoing support of our community, and to ensure that the vulnerable populations are not left behind. Thank you for the support and all the hard work of the agencies on the ground, making sure people are connected to the resources they need, when they need them."

If you can, we ask you to please consider supporting United Way Oxford’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund. All funds will
remain in Oxford to help us to connect, coordinate, and assist front line agencies as they strive to meet the increasing demands in
our community during this crisis and prepare for better days ahead.

Additional information about United Way Oxford’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund, Agency Applications, and Community
Investments can be found at www.unitedwayoxford.ca or by calling (519) 539-3851.