Responding to COVID-19 Through Grantmaking Thank you to all the generous donors and organizational funders who partnered to make an immediate impact in DeKalb County!
In August 2021, the DeKalb County COVID-19 Response Fund made its fifth and final round of grantmaking, awarding the remaining $124,166 to 16 local charitable organizations. When we think back to March 2020, we are reminded of the uncertainty and immediate needs that arose due to the global pandemic. During this time, local organizational funders began working together to respond to needs in DeKalb County from this crisis. They created the DeKalb County COVID-19 Response Fund, formed an advisory committee, and began grantmaking to local organizations in April of 2020. The distribution of grants went primarily to nonprofit organizations serving DeKalb County’s most vulnerable populations. Funding focused on basic human needs, including emergency food, basic supplies, interim housing and shelter, primary health care services, utility and financial aid, care for children and other vulnerable populations, and supported nonprofit organizations’ operating needs.
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DeKalb County COVID-19 Response Fund
Since April 2020, the COVID-19 Response Fund received $729,240 in gifts from 623 generous donors. In turn, the Fund made 116 individual grants totaling $729,240 to assist organizations serving DeKalb County. The DeKalb County COVID-19 Response Fund currently has a zero balance. If the need arises, the Fund will re-open for donations and grants. Funding partners of the DeKalb County COVID-19 Response Fund Advisory Committee included representatives from the DeKalb County Community Foundation, Douglas C. & Lynn M. Roberts Family Foundation, DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board, IDEAL Industries Foundation, Horizons Unlimited Foundation, Kishwaukee United Way, and the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP).