Grants benefit homeless individuals, homebound seniors, students & more

Eight non-profits in Monroe County can continue serving our community through the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to financial assistance from Pocono Mountains United Way’s Crisis Response Fund. Local businesses, foundations and individuals have graciously contributed $166,324+ since Pocono Mountains United Way established the fund last month. A special committee, chaired by Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau President/CEO Chris Barrett, decides which organizations will receive a one-time grant. So far, $36,920 has been distributed to the following non-profits:

• East Stroudsburg University Emergency Response Fund – $5,000
  • For ESU students who are struggling to move to online learning and need WiFi hot spots, electronic keys and textbooks. Due to loss of employment, many students need financial support for transportation, rent, necessary medications and food.
• The East Stroudsburg Salvation Army – $10,000
  • For non-congregate sheltering and emergency food for five homeless individuals to be moved into temporary shelter motel rooms through at least April 30, 2020, followed by transition into the Salvation Army’s Emergency Shelter facility on Washington Street. Funding also supports food pantry purchases.
• Feeding Families Ministry Inc. – $2,000
  • For gas, extra food pickups, masks, gloves, and food purchases through Second Harvest Food Bank.
• Monroe County Meals on Wheels – $2,120
  • For shelf-stable meal items and to purchase approximately 400 frozen meals to be provided to homebound individuals who would not normally qualify but are temporarily homebound.
• Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church – $5,000
  • For food pantry operations which have increased to 14-16 days per month. Funds will be utilized to purchase food for distribution, and to begin home delivery of food to those who are elderly/shut-in or unable to come and receive food. The pantry distributes approximately 5,000 lbs of food per week, serving 300-400 families.
• Family Service Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania – $5,000
  • For increased call volume from Monroe County residents to provide information and referral services to callers presenting with needs for food, rent assistance, utilities assistance, and information related to COVID-19.
• Northampton Community College Foundation – $5,000
  • For the Spartan Aid Fund to support Monroe Campus students by providing emergency relief in the form of technology, food, utilities, or other resources that support student progress toward their degrees and certificates.
• Women’s Resources of Monroe County – $2,800
  • For costs associated with installing and upgrading internet WiFi in shelter for children to do schoolwork and for additional food expenses for residents.

Pocono Mountains United Way commits that 100% of donated funds will be used to support crisis response efforts with 0% overhead fees assessed by United Way or the recipient organizations.

Any 501(c)3 organization can apply for funding through our form here.