In an effort to assist local residents struggling to make ends meet even before the coronavirus pandemic, United Way of Broward County has launched a major fundraising initiative. The COVID-19 Campaign benefits Broward residents in need and those in the ALICE demographic (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed); nearly 50% of the county’s households are ALICE and families living below the federal poverty level—numbers certain to rise as the economic fallout from coronavirus continues.

“Now, more than ever, we need Broward County to unite and help families and individuals whose lives have been dramatically shifted from COVID-19,” says Kathleen Cannon, president and CEO of United Way of Broward County. “United Way of Broward County is committed to supporting those who have been impacted; in addition, we will continue funding over 100 programs and initiatives right here in our community.”

Campaign funds raised will provide much-needed support in two critical areas—food assistance and emergency financial assistance. United Way of Broward also will work with community partners on programs that aid the elderly population—including delivery of meals to seniors not covered by the Older Americans Act Program, and seniors reliant on meal sites that have closed due to the virus. The initiative also seeks to help students (K-12) in Broward County Public Schools who depend on free and reduced lunches; campaign funds will help families who are in need of food on days when BCPS are not running food distribution sites.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit: unitedwaybroward.org/covid19campaign.