INDIANAPOLIS–People in central Indiana may be able to get help from organizations supported by the United Way of Central Indiana, if they have been affected by coronavirus or the reaction to the virus. The fund of $16.5 million, was announced in a press conference Friday afternoon.
The money available will go primarily to organizations that can help people in the service and hospitality industries, said a news release from United Way. Grants will be distributed to human service organizations in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion and Morgan counties best positioned to meet the emerging needs resulting from this crisis.
“If you find that all of the sudden you have a need for food, a need for things like rental support or utility support, the things that you should do are reach out to your neighborhood community center or your neighborhood food bank,” said Ann Murtlow, president and CEO of the United Way of Central Indiana.
Murtlow said those organizations will be using the monry to help people who reach out.
You also have the chance to donate via text or online. Text HELP2020 to 91999 or visit COVID19CERF.ORG to make a contribution.
Murtlow said $15 million came from the Lilly Endowment Inc., and $500,000 contributions from each of the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation, Eli Lilly and Company Foundation and United Way of Central Indiana. Central Indiana Community Foundation and Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust will also participate.
United Way will seek donations from other organizations and individuals in the weeks ahead.
“The speed with which the virus has spread and the measures necessary to slow its spread and protect global, national and local health continue to significantly disrupt our way of life. This requires us to act swiftly and strategically, with collective input from our funders and partners as we prepare for the short-term and long-term impact to Hoosiers in Central Indiana. We are so grateful to them and acknowledge that this couldn’t be done without them,” said Murtlow.
