In keeping with a mission to support Midcoast Maine nonprofits through finance and guidance, United Midcoast Charities announced the creation of a new fund and other steps it is taking in response to the coronavirus crisis in the Midcoast.

Rapid Response Fund

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, UMC has established a Rapid Response Fund. 100% of all donations received will go out as support for local nonprofits that are meeting the immediate needs of individuals seeking help in Knox and Waldo counties. The Fund is intended to provide stopgap support and anticipates the likelihood that local nonprofits will find themselves under-resourced to serve a growing demand for their services. Donations are now being accepted toward this fund at https://unitedmidcoastcharities.org/covid-19-response/.

Information for nonprofits in need of Rapid Response funding will be available soon on UMC’s website.

Fast-Tracking 2020 Grant Awards

“While we realize the importance of urgent and responsive funds, we also recognize the significance of ongoing operating funds for organizations dealing with the current situation,” according to a news release from UMC. “In that light, UMC will maintain the March 31 deadline for its regular annual grant submissions but will accelerate this year’s review process and aim to distribute the 2020 grants by June, three months ahead of their usual distribution schedule. Getting funds distributed quickly to those working on providing food, housing, healthcare, and other basic needs to our community is UMC’s highest priority.”

Removing Restrictions on 2019 Grants

UMC has also alerted its 2019 grantees that the organization will waive all restrictions on current grants in response to unforeseen needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that nonprofit grantees working on the front lines may now use 2019 grant awards for whatever will allow the organization to continue providing its much-needed services to our communities in this unprecedented situation.

Suggestions, questions, or concerns: megan@unitedmidcoastcharities.org.

United Midcoast Charities, founded in 1942, is a 501c3 community-supported nonprofit whose mission is to energize Midcoast Maine nonprofit agencies through finance and guidance, supporting a network of resources stronger than any single organization. UMC’s primary areas of focus are food, housing, health & safety, and economic security. Since 2017, UMC has awarded grants totaling $1.5 million to more than 50 agencies as part of their community-led competitive grants program. For more information, visit www.unitedmidcoastcharities.org.