In collaboration with the Dutchess County Government and the Dyson Foundation, Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley is announcing the fourth round of grants from the Dutchess Responds Fund. The most recent round of grants total $23,500. With funding from generous community members, the Dutchess Responds Fund has awarded $300,000 to area nonprofits.
 
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “As the local impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, so, too, does the generosity of Dutchess County residents looking to assist their neighbors in need. We have been overwhelmed by the selflessness of so many in our community, contributing their time, talents and resources as ‘Dutchess Responds’ to these unprecedented times. We thank everyone who had supported our efforts to lend a helping hand to those who need assistance, and we appreciate the Community Foundations for administering these awards that will benefit so many.”
 
“The Community Foundations is committed to serving as a conduit of community philanthropy,” said Cristin McPeake, Vice President of Programs at the organization. “In these weeks and months, generous neighbors have helped purchase medical equipment, feed families, provide children of essential workers with care, and more. While the spread of the pandemic has lessened, the needs of our local nonprofits has increased.”
 
“In the face of such demand for services, our area nonprofits are proving their professionalism and dedication to serving others,” McPeake continued. “Many are working with fewer resources, and modifying how they are delivered. The Foundations recognizes their exceptional work to mitigate the impacts of Covid-19 in our community. The Foundations Board and Staff thank everyone who has contributed to support these vital efforts, and welcome new and renewed contributions to ensure this work continues.”
 
Individuals, families and businesses are invited to donate online by clicking here or by sending a check made out to Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley to: 80 Washington Street, Suite 201, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
 
Learn more and lend a hand at: https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/DBCH/Dutchess-Responds-COVID-19.htm
 
The latest round of grants were awarded to: John Flowers Community Events, Friends of Historic Hyde Park Inc., Holy Light Pentecostal Church, Inc., Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, Inc., Mediation Center of Dutchess County Inc., and Rhinebeck Reformed Church Food Pantry.