In response to the impacts of Covid-19 on the region, Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley is announcing that through the generosity of its fundholders, community members, and collaborative partners, it has distributed $1 million in grants to support local response to Covid-19.  This figure represents a third of the Foundations’ regular annual grantmaking and was distributed in the month since the pandemic reached the Hudson Valley.
 
“In the last month, we have mobilized in a new way to provide urgent supports to the community,” said Cristin McPeake, Vice President of Programs at the Community Foundations. “We take heart that so many individuals, businesses, foundations, and local governments are coming together to mitigate the worst impacts of this health event on our community. The care and commitment of our neighbors is a source of inspiration to our work, and of deep comfort for those experiencing challenges as a result of Covid-19.”
 
The Foundations reports that the majority of this Covid-19 specific grantmaking is for immediate needs; shoring up feeding programs, emergency housing, and increasing access to medical and mental health services. The three main avenues for grantmaking have distributed funds in each of the organization’s service areas through Dutchess Responds, the Putnam Covid-19 Response Fund, and Project Resilience in Ulster County. “Each of these charitable giving vehicles is making a tangible difference, and we are grateful to the outpouring of support from our community,” McPeake said. “The sense of unity is palpable, even as many are isolated for various reasons. The motivation to help others is a distinguishing feature of the Hudson Valley, and the Community Foundations is proud to facilitate regional philanthropy.”
 
Grantmaking will continue in the weeks and months ahead, as donations allow. The Foundations invites new and sustaining support to these urgent response funds by clicking 'Give Today' or contacting our team at info@CommunityFoundationsHV.org or 845-452-3077.