Through the generosity of workplace campaigns and corporate sponsors, United Way of Central New York provides ongoing and essential funding to our network of 87 community programs that address the most pressing human service needs in our community, every day.

However, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic our community is facing needs beyond those we have ever faced. Thankfully, many have stepped up to meet this unexpected need, like Bank of America who is generously contributing to the Central New York area COVID-19 Community Support Fund.

The fund is designed to rapidly deploy operating grants to nonprofits who are serving vulnerable populations at greater risk because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For example, grants to Vera House ($11,500), AccessCNY ($28,900), and Syracuse Jewish Family Service ($5,000), will be used to purchase new technology that will enable staff to continue to provide counseling and services for people while they are at home.

In addition, the grant will mean Vera House can meet increased demand at their emergency shelter, and Syracuse Jewish Family Service will provide food for seniors who have special dietary needs.

To date, more than $1.4M has been received in donations, and 37 requests have been funded. To learn more about this partnership of United Way of Central New York, Central New York Community Foundation, Allyn Foundation, Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation, Health Foundation for Western & Central New York, City of Syracuse and Onondaga County — and learn how you can make a donation — please visit https://cnycf.org/covid19.