Cleveland County Announces COVID-19 Community Relief Fund
Cleveland County Government has launched a Cleveland County COVID-19 Community Relief Fund with a gift of $50,000 to the United Way. In addition, another $10,000 gift has already been committed to this fund from a community partner, bringing the total to date to $60,000. This community has a history of coming together, especially in the most challenging times. Our intention is that through the Cleveland County COVID-19 Community Relief Fund, we create a resource that serves as a vehicle to channel community caring and support in the most efficient and effective way.
The fund will be distributed through the United Way of Cleveland County via community-based organizations that offer emergency relief to families and individuals in need. The specific intention of this fund is to provide for major expenses that, if not paid, could have long term negative impacts on credit such as housing payments, car payments or necessary medical expenses. In addition, United Way staff and designated partners will consult with each person to provide information and other resources to support these efforts.
Susan Allen, Chair of the Cleveland County Commissioners stated that “With unemployment spiking, an unprecedented number of our citizens – our neighbors, friends and coworkers - are being met with financial hardships making it a challenge for increasingly higher percentages to pay for necessary major expenses. It is a priority of the Board of Commissioners to assist Cleveland County citizens during this critical time. The United Way is an ideal partner to implement this Fund. One hundred percent of the donations made to the COVID-19 Community Relief Fund will support efforts to provide relief for local residents and families most affected by emerging health, economic and social impacts of COVID-19. We appreciate the partnership with the United Way to make this fund possible.”
The outpouring of concern and support sparked by this shared global challenge has been phenomenal. You can join us in supporting our community members during this challenge by making a contribution to this fund. Donations may be made through the United Way online or by check. Every dollar will directly support individuals and families in our community that have lost income as a result of COVID-19.
“The steps that are being taken to provide for our citizens demonstrates the generosity and strong partnerships in our county,” stated Leslie Cobb- President of United Way of Cleveland County. “With our community increasingly affected by COVID-19, this fund will serve critical needs of our community members in response to COVID-19, as well as look ahead to ensure resources for families in the days and months ahead.”
The United Way will administer the grant process with community-based organizations that will facilitate the awards to individuals and families. Information and details below.
Cleveland County COVID-19 Relief Fund (CCCRF) Eligibility Requirements
- Recipient must have been employed and lost work or hours due to the COVID-19 virus
- Recipient must be a resident of Cleveland County
Those experiencing a hardship due to COVID-19 that would like to learn about assistance from the Cleveland County COVID-19 Community Relief Fund, may call the United Way of Cleveland County at 704-482-7344. United Way staff will talk with each caller to understand needs, and then guide each person through the process to apply for appropriate resources through this fund. They will also connect them with other available community resources beyond the COVID-19 Community Relief Fund such as food, utilities and baby supplies.
It is at times like these that we value and appreciate the sense of community here in Cleveland County and reach out to each other, neighbors or strangers, because we recognize that we are stronger together. Please consider expanding the resources available to our friends and neighbors by adding to the fund in any dollar amount.
TO DONATE to the Cleveland County COVID-19 Community Relief Fund:
ONLINE: Visit uwclevc.org and click the Donate Now button for COVID-19 Relief Fund
BY MAIL: United Way of Cleveland County
ATTN: COVID-19 Relief Fund
P.O. Box 2242
Shelby, NC 28151
OTHER: To make donations by phone or transfer of assets, you may call the United Way of Cleveland County at 704-482-7344
TO APPLY for support from the Cleveland County COVID-19 Community Relief Fund or for additional information:
CALL: United Way of Cleveland County
704-482-7344
ONLINE: Visit uwclevco.org and complete the Preliminary Application for Assistance