United Way takes steps to help during coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

The United Way of Greater St. Louis is taking steps to help the St. Louis area community during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

CRISIS RELIEF SUPPORT PARTNERSHIPS
The widespread crisis is developing on an hourly basis. Support efforts will warrant timely and consistent monitoring along with immediate and long-term response.

United Way is working with local nonprofits, community partners and government agencies to quickly determine the needs of our region, including childcare, food, lost wages, transportation, rent assistance and more.

The agency is currently working with Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) to coordinate efforts and identify support operations needed to serve our community, and has agreed to serve as an advisor to the St. Louis Community Foundation to assist with deploying resources where they are most needed.

COVID-19 CRISIS FUND
United Way is working closely with corporate partners to galvanize a response that will raise funds to:

• Address the lack of cleaning and sanitation supplies, food resources, personal care, baby supplies, hygiene items, and access to health resources and childcare services (including distribution of food, hot meals and household products).
• Provide basic needs support to prevent homelessness and aid in stabilization of community residents (including emergency utility, rent and mortgage assistance).
• Respond to calls for mental health and trauma counseling for children and adults.
• Support the unique needs of seniors throughout our region.
• Provide employment support for those who become ill or displaced.

Individuals interested in supporting this fund can donate at uwgsl.tfaforms.net/4602906. One hundred percent of the dollars raised will go to the immediate, intermediate and long-term support for those impacted by COVID-19 and the economic fallout.

UNITED WAY 2-1-1
The United Way 2-1-1 Navigation Center already serves as a vital resource for our most vulnerable populations. Last week, the navigation center began helping answer an increasing number of calls from those being directly and indirectly impacted by COVID-19. Over 1,000 calls were answered on Friday alone.

• Missouri residents: For general questions about COVID-19 and Missouri’s response, contact 877-435-8411 or visit health.mo.gov.
• Illinois residents: For general questions about COVID-19 and Illinois’ response, contact 1-800-889-3931 or visit dph.illinois.gov.

United Way’s response team is continuously monitoring local and national resources available and updating its resource database. You can find more information on available resources at mo2-1-1.bowmansystems.com or dial 2-1-1 for assistance.