COVID-19 Update from United Way of the Greater Capital Region

Dear Neighbor,

Our community is facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The health and safety of our staff, partners and volunteers is our top priority while we continue to support those in need.  

To minimize the impact of the COVID-19 crisis in our community, we have the following resources available for community members to get help and give help across the Capital Region: 

Capital Region Community COVID-19 Response Fund 

Co-led by the United Way of the Greater Capital Region and the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, The Capital Region Community COVID-19 Response Fund has been established to provide flexible resources to frontline 501c3 organizations working with local communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of this outbreak. 

The first round of grants will be deployed this week and then on a rolling basis as fundraising and needs assessment continue throughout the outbreak and recovery period.  

Many generous community partners have come together to support the regional response fund. For a current list of partners and more information visit unitedwaygcr.org/COVID-19 or text COVID19 to 41444 to donate.  

Essential volunteer needs at UnitedtoVolunteer.org 

Both in-person and virtual volunteer needs with local agencies that are continuing to provide essential services are available at UnitedtoVolunteer.org. Current volunteer needs include sorting and stocking food pantry shelves, delivering food, prepping and passing out lunches, data management and sending e-cards.  

READ MORE or register to volunteer at UnitedtoVolunteer.org. Agencies can also create a profile and upload essential volunteer needs to the website.  

2-1-1 helpline available 24/7  

Those in need can call 2-1-1 from any phone for a free, confidential referral to resources providing food, shelter, rent assistance, childcare options and other essential services. The helpline is also able to answer questions and provide referrals for COVID-19 related concerns. Simply dial 2-1-1 or visit 211neny.org

LIVE readers every day on our Facebook page  

We are going LIVE on our Facebook page at 11 am Monday-Friday with a guest reader sharing a children’s book. Our readers to-date include SouthPaw of the Tri-City Valley Cats, Benita Zahn, Ty Allan Jackson and NYS Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. You can still view all videos on our Facebook page or on our website. It’s a short break for parents at home and an engaging online activity for children.  

Additionally, we have taken the following steps to protect the health and safety of our staff, partners and volunteers: 

  • The United Way of the Greater Capital Region team is operating fully remote.
  • In-person tax preparation services at all VITA sites are suspended until further notice. We will make every effort to accommodate our clients who depend on this service. Those eligible are encouraged to visit MyFreeTaxes.com to file online.
  • We are continuing to assess upcoming scheduled community events including 518 Day and our Annual Awards to make informed decisions. We will keep you updated as new information becomes available. 

Our community is stronger when we LIVE UNITED. Together, we will overcome the challenges and implications of the COVID-19 crisis. Thank you for your continued support.  

 

Sincerely,

PETER GANNON
President & CEO