Since March 2020, the Athens Area Community Foundation and United Way of Northeast Georgia’s COVID-19 Community Response Fund has raised more than $350,000. The generosity of our region allowed us to quickly mobilize and response during a time of crisis.  In three months, the COVID-19 Community Response Fund has deployed $268,000. This fund has supported more than 65 local area nonprofits, organizations, and school systems.

This fund was established to support organizations meeting the immediate needs created and amplified by the pandemic, as well as assist in recovery and relief efforts. Informed by data from United Way of Northeast Georgia’s 211 and the Athens Wellbeing Project, community insight, and local knowledge, the fund has provided for a variety of community needs. After the fourth deployment of funds, there is less than $100,000 remaining to support organizations as we continue to see and support the needs associated with the public health crisis. United Way of Northeast Georgia and the Athens Area Community Foundation are now calling on the community to continue supporting the COVID-19 Community Response Fund through donation and insight on the needs of our neighbors. 

“The pandemic is not over. The relief and recovery needs as we attempt to return to work and public life means that there are numerous ways in which our help is needed. We hope the community will continue to support the COVID-19 Community Response Fund,” said Sarah McKinney, Athens Area Community Foundation President and CEO.

The Athens Area Community Foundation and United Way of Northeast Georgia are grateful for the financial stewardship of more than 380 individuals, organizations and businesses. We are especially thankful for the major gifts and contributions from the Betty and Davis Fitzgerald Foundation, CareSource Foundation, First American Bank & Trust, Foundation for the Carolinas, Georgia Power Foundation, Ross & Leigh Campbell with Georgia Skin Cancer & Aesthetic Dermatology, South State Bank, The Caterpillar Foundation, The Huffer Foundation, The Wilbur and Hilda Glenn Family Foundation, Truist, Zeist Foundation, and Athens Area Community Foundation Fundholders. 

The fund is still open and accepting donations. Anyone can help by making a donation to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund. To make a donation, please visit www.athensareacf.org