COVID-19 is creating significant challenges for our community. Missing paychecks, the inability to pay rent and the lack of access to food and basic supplies are realities many in our community will face. If you, or someone you know, needs assistance, we encourage people to connect with 211, a free service linking you with community resources for food, essential needs, health programs and more. This information and referral service is available 24/7 and can be accessed by calling 211, visiting pa211east.org/Berks or texting your zip code to 898211.
As we individually take the steps to protect our own families, we know this crisis will be devastating for our most vulnerable neighbors. At the same time, the health and human services that support our community during “normal” times are facing significant challenges meeting the increased demand for services. It is critical these organizations have the resources they need to continue to operate now and beyond the crisis.
United Way of Berks County has launched the Berks COVID-19 Response Fund to support local nonprofit organizations serving our most vulnerable neighbors. United Way has committed $100,000 to the fund. All donations received for the fund, minus any credit card fees, will be directed to the fund. Donors can TRIPLE their contribution, thanks to generous matches provided by Customers Bank and The Kindness Coalition Foundation, Karen and John Arnold. All individual gifts will be matched by each of these organizations, dollar for dollar. We are grateful for their generous support, as this will provide even more resources to our community’s most impacted children, families and seniors citizens.
We need you. We are asking you to help by making a donation to the COVID-19 Response Fund. Please donate today – every dollar counts, times three!
