In response to the hardships facing Putnam County as a result of COVID-19, the Putnam County Community Foundation continues to utilize its Relief Fund to rapidly respond to the emerging and long-term needs created by the pandemic.
Most recently, the Community Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to the Putnam County Giving Tree. The Giving Tree was established as a way to organize community efforts to support families in need of assistance during the Christmas season.
Like many other local nonprofits, the Giving Tree saw an unprecedented demand in families needing assistance this holiday season, with an additional 50 families (150 children) seeking help with ensuring their children would find presents under the Christmas tree. Additionally, they saw a decrease in sponsors in 2020 due to the hardship businesses are facing, lack of locations to place trees, and many churches and nonprofits not meeting in person.
The grant will be utilized to fill the gap created by the increase in demand to ensure each child receives three gifts this year.
“We knew the need would be higher this year, and we set a goal not to have to turn any eligible family away, and this grant will help close the gap to make this possible,” said Misti Scott, Giving Tree Coordinator. “Thank you to the Community Foundation and the Putnam County Community for bringing Christmas to families in need in our community.”
The Community Foundation has awarded nearly $85,000 to local nonprofits, agencies, and charitable entities that are serving individuals directly impacted by COVID-19. Visit www.pcfoundation.org to see a full list of recipients.