Hernando's Disaster Relief Fund

United Way of Hernando County prepares as
COVID-19 impact remains uncertain

Spring Hill, FL – (March 25, 2020) – “To inspire leaders and partners, and mobilize resources to strengthen the lives of people in our community” is the mission statement of United Way of Hernando County. Over the past few weeks however, it has become more of a personal motto for every health and human service organization battling the negative impact COVID-19 has had on not just Hernando, but communities across the globe.

Due to the uncertainty of the coronavirus, United Way and its partners prepare for the unknown unmet needs that lie ahead in the coming weeks and months. To aid those facing an unprecedented demand on resources and relief, United Way of Hernando County announced they have reactivated their Disaster Relief Fund, originally created in 2017 after Hurricane Irma, and are requesting support.

“COVID-19 is indeed a disaster,” CEO Angie Walasek stated. “The Hernando COAD meets year-round in preparation for crisis and collaboration, but this is no hurricane. The timeframe for when this will pass is unknown as we band together in hopes of getting ahead of this ripple effect we are seeing in our local communities.” COAD stands for Community Organizations Active in Disaster, made up of non-profit and for-profit local partners encouraged to plan and prepare together. Angie highlighted that thousands of individuals throughout Hernando struggle every day to afford basic necessities like housing, food, transportation and clothing. With children out of school, businesses temporarily closing, community events being canceled, and workers being laid off, there has never been a time where community support and financial resources have been more critically needed. Walasek reassured, “We are working closely with local nonprofits, community partners, and local officials to identify unmet needs and immediate priorities.”

This fund will support local organizations and programs serving those most vulnerable to the economic and health-related impacts triggered by this crisis. Critical dollars from individual donors, corporate partners and the community at large will alleviate barriers caused by this outbreak.

It has been stated that United Way is uniquely positioned to swiftly and effectively identify areas with the greatest need, activate and rapidly deploy resources to community-based organizations and individuals on the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak.

To donate to the United Way of Hernando County Disaster Relief Fund, visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org/GIVE.

Individuals and families in need of additional resources can visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org/COVID19 for local updates or contact United Way’s 2-1-1 Information and Referral Center for quick access to resources in Hernando County. Connect to 2-1-1 by phone, text message, online chat or email.

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United Way of Hernando County, Inc.:
United Way of Hernando County (UWHC) was established as a 501c3 organization in 1987, and since then has continuously focused on creating partnerships and mobilizing our community to seek sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing local needs.  UWHC strategically allocates Community Investment Funds in Health, Education, & Financial Stability programs with proven results and local impact. UWHC works hard to balance the growing demand for basic services such as food, utilities, and rent assistance, with our ongoing commitment to tackling the underlying causes of complex issues. United Way partners with businesses and organizations that share our vision for improving lives through the power of collective impact and working together. Our support for long-term commitments are essential to addressing key social issues, such as helping children, youth, adults & elders, encouraging health and wellness, including physical and emotional care, promoting financial stability and self-sufficiency, and crisis intervention. For more information on how YOU can LIVE UNITED, visit www.UnitedWayHernando.org.