United Way of Denton County has disbursed $118,425 from its COVID-19 Relief Fund to help Denton County residents who are struggling financially due to the pandemic, according to an April 16 announcement.

The fund was established to help provide financial assistance to individuals and families in Denton County who have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, said Courtney Cross, director of mental health and housing initiatives for United Way of Denton County.

So far, 138 households have received financial assistance from the fund.

Through the fund, people who have experienced income or job loss can get financial help for rent, mortgage and utility expenses. Residents can find out more about eligibility rules and the documentation required to receive assistance at United Way’s website, which also features a list of other resources available to those in need.

Since the fund launched, local nonprofits and agencies have referred residents in need to United Way of Denton County, according to the announcement.


“Contributions from the Denton County United Way COVID-19 Relief Fund are making a huge impact amongst many individuals in crisis with no one to turn to for help,” said Daphne Adams, director of family services at Christian Community Action of Lewisville, in a statement. “Access to the COVID-19 Relief Fund has helped families avoid eviction and prevent hunger insecurity.”

As more and more residents have begun to feel the financial impacts of the pandemic, Christian Community Action of Lewisville has served three times the number of families it did at this time last year, according to the announcement. If demand continues to increase at its current rate, the organization anticipates the need for financial assistance will increase by nearly 500%.

“Many of the families requesting assistance are doing so for the very first time, which is very overwhelming and hard for each of them,” Grace Like Rain CEO Michelle Conner said in a statement. “We know that the long-term effects could be devastating to so many, and the need for long-term assistance and support will be greater than it ever has been. These funds are helping [Grace Like Rain] help families stay ahead of the crisis.”

The COVID-19 Relief Fund now has a balance of $188,618, according to United Way.


“This pandemic is unlike any other crisis our community has faced,” said Gary Henderson, president and CEO of United Way of Denton County, in a statement. “Nonprofits are truly on the front lines of this crisis providing a lifeline to a record number of neighbors who are being financially devastated. We’re grateful to the generosity of individuals, municipalities and corporations who’ve stepped up with donations to help.”

United Way of Denton County continues to accept donations for the relief fund here.