United Way Launches Website for COVID-19 Relief

The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties has launched a new website aimed at helping local residents contend with the financial effects of COVID-19.

The site, www.RutherfordCannonRelief.com, serves as a single source for those who are able to donate, as well as up-to-date resources and tools for families and individuals who have been directly affected financially.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created one of the most challenging times we’ve faced as a community,” said Meagan Flippin, President and CEO of United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties. “Many of our friends and neighbors have lost their jobs or had their hours cut back, and there’s so much uncertainty about when things will go back to normal.

“Many who are impacted by this crisis have never had to tap into external resources to meet basic needs like food and housing. That’s why we launched this website, along with our COVID-19 relief fund—to help support our neighbors in need,” Flippin said.

United Way’s COVID-19 relief fund is specifically for individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of this crisis. Donations can be made by visiting www.RutherfordCannonRelief.com or texting COVIDRELIEF to 41444.

• 100% of funds received for COVID-19 relief will be used for:
• “ALICE” (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families with children
• Workers with reduced wages
• People who do not have the resources they need to stay safe and well
• People who need up-to-date information on how to connect to resources
• People who need assistance with basic human services/needs
• Other target areas, as assessed

“For those who need immediate help, United Way has resources available right now. You can call 2-1-1 to be connected with someone who can direct you to the assistance you need,” Flippin said.

2-1-1 is a community services help line where callers speak to a specialist who is trained to help assess needs, and then provide phone numbers and addresses of the closest places where help is available. This includes a database of more than 10,000 health and human services programs. All calls are free and completely confidential.