RI Foundation, United Way Raise $2.8M For Coronavirus Relief

Just one day after its launch, the fund launched by the United Way and Rhode Island Foundation to provide financial support to those in need during the coronavirus pandemic has nearly doubled in size. As of Wednesday, the fund had grown to $2.8 million, thanks to the support of local donors.

On Tuesday, Governor Gina Raimondo announced the launch of the then-$1.5 million fund and urged any businesses or indivudals in the state who were able to contribute to do so. Some of the initial donors include Delta Dental of Rhode Island, BankNewport, the Salem Foundation, Navigant Credit Union, the Partnership for Rhode Island, the van Beuren Charitable Foundation and AAA. The funds will be distributed to charitable organizations around the state to benefit those who need it most.

"We are in the midst of an unpredictable, rapidly changing public health emergency - one that is having immediate impact on the community we care so deeply about, and that will likely have lasting, consequential effects," Neil Steinberg, the foundation's president and CEO, said. "This is the time to coordinate resources and response. As the state’s community foundation, we are prepared, and experienced, at being the nexus between Rhode Islanders who want to help, and the organizations on the ground responding to immediate and prolonged community need."

Details about how to apply for grants will be announced in the coming days.

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