Fund Established to Support Ongoing COVID-19 Efforts
August 13, 2020
Providence, RI- Mayor Jorge O. Elorza today announced the establishment of the Providence Community Relief Fund. The fund, held at United Way of Rhode Island, was created to focus on sustaining the long-term recovery of Providence’s residents through the COVID-19 crisis. As the needs of residents and businesses change amid the pandemic, the City continues to adapt available services and supports.
Together with its private and public partners, the City has created and supported accessible COVID-19 bilingual testing centers, food distribution sites, housing, and eviction resources, and financial relief for individuals and families across Providence.
“Our city has been incredibly resilient during the often difficult and changing circumstances COVID-19 has presented for our community,” said Mayor Elorza. “This fund will help support our response and these generous donations will help our neighbors most in need.”
The Providence Community Relief Fund received an inaugural contribution from local philanthropist Mark Mandell, Esq. Mr. Mandell donated $25,000 and issued an additional challenge, pledging to match another $25,000 once that amount was raised by the community.
“We all have a shared responsibility to help each other – it is so important that we do that, especially during tough times,” said Mr. Mandell. “I invite all who are able to join me in helping to provide basic needs to our fellow Rhode Islanders.”
The funds raised will be distributed to nonprofit organizations that serve Providence residents and could support a variety of initiatives, such as food assistance and direct financial relief.
“United Way has been among the forefront of our state’s charitable response to the coronavirus crisis, committed to working closely with individuals and our corporate leaders to ensure their philanthropy reaches those who need help the most,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of UWRI. “Partnering with the City on this relief fund was an easy decision, and the availability of our MyFund giving platform makes it simple for donors to support the effort and make a difference in the lives of others.”
United Way’s MyFund is a digital giving tool that provides donors with the convenience and flexibility to securely support the causes and charities important to them, from anywhere, using a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop computer.