The COVID-19 Community Response Fund, hosted by the Athens Area Community Foundation in partnership with United Way of Northeast Georgia, has distributed its third round of funding. In total, 71 thousand dollars, amounting to 32% of the fund, have been granted to sixteen local non-profits, all of which will provide positive experiences for Athens-area youth this summer.
Organizations include Brightpaths, Children First, Inc., Piedmont CASA, Inc., Northeast Georgia CASA, Athens Area Diaper Bank, Boys and Girls Club of Athens, Boys and Girls Club of Winder-Barrow County, Madison-Morgan County Boys and Girls Club, Boys and Girls Club of Jackson County, Athens YMCA, YMCA of Georgia’s Piedmont – Brad Akins Branch, Extra Special People, Inc., Books for Keeps, Chess and Community, East Athens Development Corporation, and Drug Free Athens.
In a statement, Kay Keller, President and CEO of United Way of Northeast Georgia and Sarah McKinney, President and CEO of Athens Area Community Foundation, stressed the challenges and upheaval faced by local youth as a result of COVID-19 as well as the importance of supporting their enrichment and education this summer. Keller states, “We know that many of our children are missing the interactions with other kids, some are facing unsafe or unstable environments, and many are lacking interactions with positive role models who can focus their attention on their growth and success. We believe these organizations are providing opportunities for that, in spite of the pandemic.”
Over 370 individuals, organizations, and businesses contributed to the fund, which remains open and accepting donations. Anyone wishing to donate to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund may do so by visiting www.athensareacf.org.