Disaster Recovery Fund
Disaster Recovery Fund activated in response to COVID-19 Pandemic
4/8/20 – On behalf of our county, the Marion County Community Foundation has established the Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) to support our most negatively impacted populations as they face the effects of COVID-19. The DRF provides an opportunity for the public to give with the reassurance their donations will be used to quickly move resources to where they are most needed and to adapt to evolving needs. The flexibility of the fund will ensure that the community will be able to respond to needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state, and federal programs.
The Community Foundation’s Advisory Board has committed an immediate $10,000 to the DRF. To join us in giving to support our community through these uncertain times, visit desmoinesfoundation.org/marioncountydisasterfund.
Dollars received will first focus on disproportionately affected communities by addressing economic needs and health challenges of populations negatively impacted by COVID- 19 related closures and other effects of the outbreak. The long-term application of the fund will focus on additional needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state, and federal programs that will inevitably arise.
We may not know what tomorrow will bring, but thanks to the support of the DRF we have the confidence that we stand ready to meet the challenge. Our community has proven time and time again that we are better together and this collaborative spirit will once again prevail as we support our neighbors in need.
Disaster Recovery Fund FAQs
Why was the Disaster Recovery Fund created?
When a disaster happens, the Marion County Community Foundation wants to help. The Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) was created to provide a collaborative option for donors to help address both immediate and long-term unmet needs that will arise during times of disaster. The intention of the DRF is to provide a nimble philanthropic fund for Marion County in the face of uncertainty caused by disaster. It was created to supplement, not replace, existing resources and services provided by non-profits and local, state and federal agencies. Each disaster is unique and unanticipated needs will arise. This fund is intended to be flexible and responsive in meeting needs that are not otherwise covered by existing programs.
What is the purpose of the fund?
The Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) will provide grants focused on reducing the economic and health challenges on populations negatively impacted prior to and following a disaster as well as long-term needs that may emerge. Grants awarded will supplement, not replace, other resources including government support and relief efforts in cases of local disaster. Grants will fill gaps in services and needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state and federal resources and programs.
How long will the fund be available/open?
The DRF extends beyond a single disaster and is a key part of the community’s disaster response. Preparedness work will be continuous and ongoing. The fund is activated in times of local disaster.
How do you know what is the most important thing to support?
Every disaster can look different, with different impacts, different needs and different resources available for support. The Community Foundation’s Advisory Board will be in communication with local non-profits and agencies to identify recipients with deep roots in the community and experience to deliver support and services to negatively impacted populations at moments of crisis. The funds will be used to support needs that are not being met through existing non-profit, local, state and federal resources and programs.
How is money going to be given away?
Initial grants will be awarded outside of an application process to provide flexible support to trusted partners quickly and will be provided for direct client assistance and/or organization capacity needs due to demands of the disaster. Grants from the DRF may be awarded on a rolling basis as the evolution of the disaster and community needs is assessed. Grants will be provided to community-based organizations/service providers active in current response and/or preparation in the areas of economic and health impacts for negatively impacted populations. Grants will be made only to cover needs that are not being met by existing non-profit, local, state and federal resources and programs.
How do nonprofits apply for support from the Disaster Recovery Fund?
Initial grants will be awarded outside of an application process to provide flexible support to trusted partners quickly and will be provided for direct client assistance and/or organization capacity needs due to demands of the disaster.
Can individuals access the money for things they need like supplies, food, help with lost income, etc.?
The DRF will support non-profit organizations that provide services intended to reduce the economic and health challenges on negatively impacted populations prior to and following a disaster.
How can I learn more about the fund?
Please contact us to learn more about the fund.