United Way of West Florida launches COVID-19 relief fund

Posted on March 23, 2020 by Staff reports

In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic facing the community and nation, United Way of West Florida has launched its relief fund to support those affected in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

“As schools, businesses, and pubic establishments close, United Way of West Florida understands that people’s ways of life are being significantly affected – hours are being cut, services are being eliminated, and wages are being lost,” stated the organization in a news release.

Individuals in need of immediate assistance accessing food, paying housing or utility bills, or other essential services are urged to dial 211 from their phones or visit www.211nwfl.org.

211 Northwest Florida provides information and referral services to the following counties: Escambia, Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Santa Rosa, and Washington.

United Way of West Florida’s COVID-19 Response Fund will support families within their service area who have been economically impacted by the pandemic and will provide support to nonprofit agencies that are providing critical services to those in need, per the organization.

211 Northwest Florida also provides support services for veterans in need of assistance through the Florida Veteran’s Support Line. By dialing 1-844-MYFLVET (693-5838), or 211 and disclosing that the caller is a veteran, they may speak directly with a fellow veteran trained to provide emotional support and links to community resources.

To donate to this fund, text 850Respond to 41444 or visit www.uwwf.org/covid19fund. Gifts of all sizes will improve our community’s ability to respond during this unprecedented time.

For more information and updates regarding COVID-19, please visit www.UWWF.org/COVID19, follow United Way of West Florida on Facebook (@UWWFL), as well as 211 Northwest Florida (@211nwfl).