COVID-19 RESPONSE

Meeting the Moment

From the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis, we had one unwavering objective: prioritize resources for people most in need.

Our rapid response efforts prioritized nonprofits serving at-risk populations — including seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness or economically disadvantaged. Thanks to over 8,000+ individuals who donated to the PHL COVID-19 Fund, community safety nets and other essential support stayed intact.

As we look towards long-term recovery efforts, United Way of Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey will continue to respond to the needs of our neighbors and support those most impacted by the pandemic.

help our region recover with a donation today.

Community crisis fund helps ensure vital services

Through a unique partnership between United Way, the City of Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Fund, the PHL COVID-19 Fund led the way in raising $18 million in immediate aid to nonprofits serving on the frontlines of the coronavirus.

The PHL COVID-19 Fund brought together a diverse coalition of philanthropy, government and business partners as one united community to create a regional rapid response.

learn more about our community partners.

The Impact of a United Force

In partnership with the City of Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Fund, United Way led the way in providing immediate relief to nonprofits on the frontlines of serving our neighbors most in need.

$18M+

Raised for the PHL Covid-19 Fund

600

Grants awarded to the nonprofit community

Bridging the digital divide to prevent learning loss

To help bridge the divide in digital equity, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey stepped up to serve as the regional coordinator for PHLConnectED, a multi-year collaborative effort ensuring Philadelphia K-12 students can connect to digital learning opportunities at home.

PHLConnectED leverages efforts of the City of Philadelphia, School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia School Partnership, Philadelphia Housing Authority, Comcast, and multiple philanthropic partners. People can connect to services using our free 24-7 HelpLine: 211.

Connect to 211.

Helping our most vulnerable neighbors get access to vaccines

Transportation has proven to be a key barrier for many individuals looking to obtain vaccines. As vaccine distribution expands, it’s more important than ever that low-income individuals and families can access vaccination sites.

That’s why we launched the Ride United Vaccine Access Campaign which provides anyone 65 years or older with access to free and discounted rides to vaccination sites in Philadelphia.

In partnership with Lyft and the City of Philadelphia, the Ride United Vaccine Access Campaign prioritizes vaccination distribution to people and communities hit hardest by the Covid-19 virus.

To sign up for a ride, residents can call the City’s transportation hotline, run through the City of Philadelphia’s Mayor’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteer Service, at 215-586-3006.

Get more info on Ride United.

Identifying gaps to level the playing field for entrepreneurs of color in Philadelphia

Amid widespread calls for racial justice and the COVID-19 pandemic, a team of local stakeholders—including United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Commerce, and PIDC — released a groundbreaking report assessing the state of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) entrepreneurship in Philadelphia and addressing historical racial inequities among small businesses of color.

The report builds on existing investments by the City, United Way, and PIDC in enhancing Philadelphia’s entrepreneurial landscape and delivering flexible capital to small businesses.

Key findings for entrepreneurs of color.

Looking towards the future

You have the power to change lives.

Through our Impact Fund, we’ll continue to invest in the social and economic drivers that mitigate poverty — and that will help our region recover — including workforce development, financial empowerment, childcare, and basic needs, such as food and shelter.

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