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Urgent Needs Fund Grants to Non-Profits Throughout Oceana

MAY 26, 2020

The Community Foundation for Oceana County (CFOC) established an Urgent Needs Fund in late March to provide support to area nonprofit organizations, schools and governments on the front lines serving those most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Fund received initial support of $40,000 from the Foundation, several anonymous partners and Mrs. Mullen’s Closet Fund of the Community Foundation for Oceana County. Over time, donations have totaled close to $70,000.

The Foundation fast-tracked $28,825 in grants over the last six weeks, with the greatest concern around food access. “We surveyed Oceana nonprofits, participate in weekly inter-agency calls facilitated by United Way of the Lakeshore and review 211 help line data to best understand community needs,” explained Tammy Carey, Foundation CEO.  Funding applications have mirrored pandemic impacts, from food access, need for educational enrichment activities, to mental health crises, to housing issues, to an urgency for PPE as nonprofits begin to directly serve their clients. We encourage those who want to see the full list of the 22 funded projects or to apply for an Urgent Needs Fund grant to do so here

We are so proud of the many ways our community has come together to volunteer, gather items and help neighbors. “We have fostered new relationships through this crisis – from law enforcement, school administrators, health organizations, businesses, nonprofits, government, funders and food pantries. And, donors have also dug deep during this time of great need to make sure Oceana takes care of its own. I’m overwhelmed by the partnerships!” said Carey. Coming soon, Love INC will start distributing activity packets to all Oceana school children. The Foundation provided $1,000 in funding towards the materials and over 2300 books through an expanded effort of Read early. Read often to benefit all children.

Established in 1989, the Foundation has grown with the County it serves and is growing resources now to provide the help when it is needed the most. For those who would like to help, we encourage you to support the Urgent Needs Fund at Community Foundation for Oceana County online at this link.  Checks are welcome too at CFOC, P.O. 902, Pentwater, MI 49449. Please note Urgent Needs Fund on the memo line. More information can be obtained by calling Tammy Carey at 231-869-3377.