The donation follows the court’s vote earlier in the month to contribute $60,000 to the fund, bringing the county’s total donations to $735,000.
“We believe this donation is vital to assist United Way of Denton County in working with our nonprofit agencies countywide to ensure the needs of residents struggling during this COVID-19 pandemic are met,” Denton County Judge Andy Eads said.
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.
Part of the $675,000 will fulfill grant requests from 15 local nonprofits that are helping residents with rental and food assistance. These nonprofits include CASA of Denton County, Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County, Christian Community Action, Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home, Denton County Friends of the Family, First Refuge Ministries, Grace Like Rain, Hearts for Homes, Journey to Dream, Metrocrest Services, Metroport Meals on Wheels, Mission Moms, NTX Community Food Pantry, PediPlace and Woman to Woman Pregnancy Resource Center.
According to officials, $260,000 of the donation will go toward eviction prevention for Denton County residents in need.
“Nearly 200 families have received eviction prevention assistance from the COVID-19 Relief Fund," Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell said. “Our hope is that continued support of this program will continue to make a difference in our residents’ lives.”
Including Denton County’s donation, United Way has raised more than $1.18 million for the COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund.
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.
