Columbia County has joined the rest of country to help people impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. From emergency relief programs designed to alleviate economic hardship to blood drives, here’s how Columbia County residents can help their neighbors weather the coronavirus epidemic.
Donate to the Columbia County COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund
In March, the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation (BTCF) launched the Columbia County COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to help nonprofit organizations provide services to individuals and families affected by the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Funds raised go directly to organizations providing services. Emergency needs include food for children and seniors, support for the homeless, and support for residents unable to pay rent due to job loss or reduced work hours. Click here to make a donation.
Donate to the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Fund
BTCF’s Neighbor-to-Neighbor Fund gives emergency assistance to local residents who are in economic distress. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, grants up to $1,000 help residents pay overdue utility bills, short-term housing costs, and medical bills. Checks are written to the vendor on behalf of the community resident in need. Social service agencies in Columbia County as well as Berkshire County may apply for grants to aid families and individuals in the Berkshire Taconic area. Click here to make a donation.
Volunteer with Doorstop Deliverers
This volunteer organization offers free “store-to-door” grocery and pharmacy deliveries for elderly, immunocompromised, or at-risk community members impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. The program pairs housebound residents with volunteers who work on an as-needed weekly basis to deliver food and prescription medicine. Volunteers pick up groceries and prescription medicines from local businesses that offer curbside pickup. Orders are placed and paid for by delivery recipients. Learn more about program here.
Donate to Columbia Opportunities, Inc. COVID-19 Relief Fund
Headquartered in Hudson, NY, Columbia Opportunities, Inc. is a community action organization serving all of Columbia County through home energy assistance programs, emergency financial assistance, and education and early literacy. Their COVID-19 relief fund provides help for Columbia County residents who need support due to loss of income or help with housing and food. Learn how to donate here.
Donate Blood and Plasma at a New York Blood Center
The New York Blood Center Enterprises has put out a call for healthy individuals to donate blood and plasma to help treat COVID-19 patients. Hospitals are in need of blood and convalescent plasma to treat patients with serious or life-threatening COVID-19 infections. Donors must wear a mask or face covering, be free of symptoms for 14 days if recovering from the coronavirus, and agree to a temperature check. Get all the details about donating blood here.
Donate to the Hudson Arts Emergency Fund
The Hudson Development Corporation (HDC) Emergency Cultural Task Force created the Hudson Arts Emergency Fund to support artists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs styled along the lines of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) mission during the Great Depression will offer stipends to artists who create works that document or speak to life during the pandemic. Stipends are available for $500, $1,000, and $2,000, depending upon the scope of the project. For examples of potential projects and to make a donation, head here.
