Using Innovation to Fight COVID-19
In these unprecedented times, we find ourselves employing new, innovative methods to tackle current challenges. As our communities continue to feel the increased impact from the coronavirus, we are on the ground leading targeted coordinated COVID-19 responses to support the most vulnerable populations. Our mission is critical now- for people who need food and shelter, families facing financial distress, and individuals in need of medical care.
During this time, innovation is coming together in the most inspiring ways.
As we practice social distancing, United Ways are making the most of going virtual. In the last few weeks:
· On March 24, United Way of Greater Los Angeles co-hosted a virtual Te’LA’thon with the Los Angeles Rams to provide immediate relief to low income families and individuals at risk of homelessness. The Te’LA’thon gained support from celebrities like Jimmy Kimmel, Emilio Rivera, and Brenda Song to raise more than $2.2 million dollars.
· On April 4, United Way of Greater Cleveland hosted a live telethon, All for the Land: COVID-19 Relief Live, with the Cleveland Cavaliers drawing 2,000 people and raising $153,000 for local coronavirus relief efforts.
· On April 7, United Way Worldwide, United Nations Foundation and Red Nose Day hosted #HopeFromHome, a first-of-its-kind, multi-platform digital fundraising event to help fight the impacts of COVID-19. This global event brought together over 2,000 creators, celebrities, and athletes including JackSepticEye, Aisha Tyler, James Charles, Jeff Goldblum, Michael Sheen, and Markiplier with presence in more than 133 countries. This 12-hour groundbreaking event raised $1.7 million dollars. The campaign isn’t over, #HopeFromHome is accepting donations till May 1.
We’re embracing virtual volunteering. United Way of Marathon County and United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut are bringing story time to kids at home. Volunteers are reading to children over the internet while schools are shut down in response to COVID-19. Become a virtual volunteer!
We haven’t forgot about our first responders and healthcare workers working tirelessly to fight COVID-19. United Way of Central Indiana is providing childcare assistance for families of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Fire Department and Public Safety Communication through partnership with the City of Indianapolis, YMCA, Indianapolis Public Schools and AYS Childcare. In response to a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), United Way of Chattanooga is working with the Public Education Foundation to 3D print filtered face masks for health care workers.
211, our free and confidential service, is continuing to connect people with services and resources, especially those affected by the COVID-19. As of today, more than 31 state 211s have been activated to support COVID-19, with call centers experiencing 75,000 calls a day (an up to 400% increase in call volume!)
Of course, this is a short list of United Way’s response to COVID-19. We’re all coming together and venturing new ways to fight COVID-19. Join us in the response to COVID-19 and support communities most in need.
