Disaster Recovery Fund activated in response to COVID-19 pandemic

Courtesy of the Greater Jefferson County Foundation

On behalf of our county, the Greater Jefferson County Foundation has established the Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) to support our most negatively impacted populations as they face the effects of COVID-19. The DRF provides an opportunity for the public to give with the reassurance their donations will be used to quickly move resources to where they are most needed and to adapt to evolving needs. The flexibility of the fund will ensure that the community will be able to respond to needs that are not being met by existing nonprofit, local, state and federal programs.

The Greater Jefferson County Foundation Board has committed an immediate $100,000.00 to the DRF. To join us in giving to support our community through these uncertain times, checks may be mailed to the Foundation at P.O. Box 1325, Fairfield, IA 52556.

The Greater Jefferson County Foundation has amended its annual grant period. The 2020 Grant Period will be May 1 with an extended deadline of July 1st. The application has been amended to a one-page application with focus on COVID19 relief. Some grant restrictions have been lifted.

Board President Kara Waugh said, 'We are fortunate to be in a position to create the Disaster Relief Fund and designate funds to assist the organizations and members of our community. Helping our community in times of need is central to what the Greater Jefferson County Foundation was created to do.” Waugh added, 'Not only do we want to help during this crisis, but also provide assistance to ensure our community continues to move forward during and after this crisis. Our community is made up of so many wonderful organizations and people and we want to make sure they all continue to exist and thrive well into the future.'

Dollars received will first focus on disproportionately affected communities by addressing economic needs and health challenges of populations negatively impacted by COVID- 19 related closures and other effects of the outbreak. The long-term application of the fund will focus on additional needs that are not being met by existing nonprofit, local, state and federal programs that will inevitably arise. Grant funds will remain in Jefferson County.

We may not know what tomorrow will bring, but thanks to support of the DRF we have the confidence that we stand ready to meet the challenge. Our community has proven time and time again that we are better together and this collaborative spirit will once again prevail as we support our neighbors in need.

About the Greater Jefferson County Foundation

The Greater Jefferson County Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, was created in 1975 by and for the people of Jefferson County. The Greater Jefferson County Foundation's primary goals are to support charitable projects in programs throughout our county and to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options.

The Foundation may be reached by calling 641-472-0758, or email at gjcf0758@windstream.net.