The past two weeks have, in many ways, transformed our lives and our city. Yet, in such a challenging time, the thing that gives me great hope and inspiration is seeing how quickly our community has come together.
Since United Way of Metro Chicago and The Chicago Community Trust launched the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund on March 16th, we have more than $21 million in commitments. This tremendous response has allowed us to quickly deploy $8.8 million to the organizations on the frontlines, providing essentials to our neighbors hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic, with plans to distribute the full 100% of dollars raised to the community throughout subsequent funding rounds.
The total impact is truly remarkable, but what I’ve found incredibly encouraging is hearing the stories about why our neighbors choose to give. One donor shared that they just moved to Chicago and wanted to give back to the city they now call home. Another said that their family wasn’t able to celebrate their grandmother’s birthday together, so instead decided to pool their resources to give in her honor. We’ve heard of donors shaving their heads to raise support, artists using their talent to raise awareness of the need, and athletes leveraging their influence to encourage others to join the fight.
From $10 to $1 million, each gift is making an impact. This amazing network of donors are ensuring that resources continue to flow into our neighborhoods, providing services and support to our neighbors in an unprecedented time. They continue to demonstrate the power that we have when we come together – individuals, businesses, government and nonprofit – to address the needs of our region.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this effort. Your donation and your commitment to our community have a significant impact. All of us have a role to play in ensuring Chicago remains strong throughout this crisis. On behalf of the team at United Way and our community partners, we hope you’ll join with us as we rise to meet the moment.
Sincerely,
Sean Garrett
President and CEO
United Way of Metro Chicago