HoCoRespond Launches Initiative To Raise $200K For Residents

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A new effort is underway to help raise and distribute an additional $200,000 to support the nonprofits working on the front line in Howard County during the global coronavirus pandemic. HoCoRespond specifically is seeking grant funding for Howard County residents who are facing eviction and a loss of unemployment insurance supplements.

Under the umbrella of HoCoRespond, the Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women'ss Giving Circle of Howard County have been working together since March to assess community needs, accept donations and provide funding to Howard County nonprofits with an emphasis placed on food security, housing, child care and healthcare. Through HoCoRespond, $407,500 has been award to 31 nonprofits since March.

“This public health crisis has caused a wave of challenges for our residents; people are facing unimaginable circumstances deciding whether to keep a roof over their head or food on their table," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball in a statement. “We’re incredibly grateful to have such dedicated organizations to help look out for our most vulnerable, and HoCoRespond has already demonstrated effectiveness in collaboration. In a time when it’s imperative to help those among us most in need, this is a perfect way to support your neighbors and community. I encourage those who are able to make a charitable contribution to support this emergency fund.”

Those looking to help can donate to the following emergency funds supporting nonprofits that are assisting community members affected by the coronavirus:

● The Community Foundation of Howard County has established Howard County Community Relief Fund to address ongoing emergencies in Howard County.
● The United Way of Central Maryland has established the COVID-19 Community Fund for Central Maryland to support the community, and in particular, support those who operate on the front lines of providing help and resources to those in need.
● The Women's Giving Circle of Howard County has established the COVID-19 Fund to address unprecedented COVID-19 community needs and is also responding to emergency needs through its long-established Emergency Response Network (ERN).

“The reality is that COVID-19 is continuing to harm our community,” said Nikki Highsmith Vernick, president and CEO of the Horizon Foundation. “We will continue to work closely with our funding partners to address critical housing, food, childcare and healthcare challenges in Howard County and provide emergency and ongoing support to those in need.”