United Way starts an Impact Fund to assist individuals affected by COVID-19 pandemic

(Canton, OH) March 26, 2020 – In our community, 36.3% workers lack enough savings to withstand a sudden loss in wages. To support this rapidly escalating financial need in our community, United Way of Greater Stark County has created the COVID-19 Impact Fund.

To give to your neighbors in need, please visit uwstark.org/covid or text STARK to 50503 today.

Funds collected will help hourly, low-wage workers who have lost their jobs or had reduced hours as a result of the pandemic. The fund will help them weather losses from this pandemic, providing financial assistance to help meet their families’ basic needs during this time of crisis.

“We know that all of us depend on each other for a healthy community. The same priority guides our concern for those most economically vulnerable in this pandemic. Our community is facing unprecedented times, and many families need your help,” says Maria Heege, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Stark County. “United Way has established the COVID-19 Impact Fund, a dedicated resource for working families affected by the COVID-19 public health emergency. We are committed to mobilizing 100% of the collected funds to provide financial assistance to help meet families’ basic needs during the COVID-19 crisis. Together, we will weather this storm.”

If you know someone who has lost their job or have reduced hours because of the pandemic, they may be eligible to receive one-time assistance with their rent or mortgage payment. Have them visit uwstark.org/covid or call 330-491-9960 to submit an application. Support will be given to those meeting the eligibility requirements and until funding is exhausted.

2-1-1 is available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1 or texting your zip code to 898-211. They will connect you with information on support services and community programs that can help during this crisis.

About United Way of Greater Stark County
United Way of Greater Stark County fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. We win by living United. By forging unlikely partnerships. By finding new solutions to old problems. By mobilizing the best resources. And by inspiring individuals to join the fight against their community’s most daunting social crisis. Our mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our communities in Greater Stark County. In order to live better, we must live United. For more information about United Way of Greater Stark County visit www.uwstark.org. Offices are at 401 Market Avenue North, Suite 300, Canton, Ohio 44702. (330) 491-0445.